I like the :10 minute start separation with “event” designation. We tried a forced-start in the first Sports Nationals, but it was too severe! Contestants picked their launch time, but were required to start within :15 minutes! Gate open with first launch and STI had not yet been invented. Don’t believe we had any leaching, though!
Don’t know about the hard-deck idea.............best to try one major change at a time!
JJ