@ OB and @Ral, I agree that making the exit gates further out would make it easier to score 6 buoys and continue the round, but OB's original argument stressed the idea that this would make it safer. A rule change just to make the sport easier is a bad idea in my opinion but if there is legitimate proof that it would significantly increase skier safety then maybe it would be something to consider
@OB I am a shortline skier as well and I am quite familiar with the S-turn method to get a full buoy. In my opinion watching a skier round 6 ball late and have to take a hit going out the gates is exciting. Does it hurt sometimes, absolutely but that is what seperates the men from the boys and the women from the girls.