Hi Leland:  I agree with Gary Newsom on longer time controls, at least two hours being preferable. I would rather play one or two serious games than three speed games any day. Since the luck of the draw is a major factor in short swiss-system events, getting a "clear winner" is meaningless performance-wise anyway. The meager prize money is hardly a consideration in one-day events, so I would rather take my chances by playing real chess and at least enjoy the experience. Thanks,  Keith