I'm not aware of someone "stalling and spinning with water at 600'
attempting to get over the circle edge last season'. Where and when did
this happen? What finish configuration was in use?

I also can't imagine why. Under current US rules, even when there is a
finish circle, and even when the CD announces a substantial minimum
height for the circle, you are allowed to proceed directly to the field
and get a rolling finish for speed points. You might lose the 1 minute
of time between crossing the 1 mile circle and your landing, but that's
better than any thermaling will do for you. So there is not even any
competitive reason to be circling at 600' one mile out with water.

John Cochrane
BB