After reading the replies my response is that no one format fits all. My preference is the USAC format where qualifying, and heat races are meaningful. This does not fit with all, such as weekly shows with limited time and what sometimes feels like unlimited support classes. If I go to a "major league" show I expect to get the whole package, not a truncated version. Every format has limitations and compromises, but a so-called top tier event should include qualifying, partially inverted heats, a last chance race and listen up USAC: a 40 lap main.

.currently anchored in St. Anne, Martinique