recovery

First day back in the states, I do a two hour ride and get a flat. Didn't get a single flat in ten days in Belgium...
So, this reminded me of a conversation I had in Belgium about the differences in racing categories. In the US, we have 5 categories of amateur racers (for adult men, women have 4). In Belgium, it's 2, literally newbies (that's the translation) and everyone else (elite). Of course there's also masters, juniors, U23, etc.
One would think that with a larger racing community, this wouldn't be the case. But what I think it speaks to is the American need to be rewarded for our efforts. As we progress from new racer to elite, we are rewarded along the way with a new status. Why not have 2 categories (newbies and elites)? Many races already do this, by offering just two fields 1/2/3 and 4/5. Fields would be bigger, and more profitable for promoters (who are often lucky to break even). Of course, that would probably lead to more DNFs, which leads to more problems (it's amazing how many riders complain about being listed as DNF in results...)