This is also a hanggliding issue. The starts could be improved. On our most popular flight computer (brauniger compeo + or flytec 6030) we have the possibility to configure the times at which the startgate would open, and even multiple startgates at different intervals. Also we have a countdown clock telling us how much time till start opens and how close we would cross the line.
Also we have two types of starts: One is call the exit start, thats basically how xcsoar works, meaning that the last time you leave the start sector, your tasktime will start. Nevertheless we also have an Entry start, meaning that you will take off outside the start cylinder, and you will need to fly towards the start sector. This works when you also have to reach a turnpoint inside the start (usually the same coordinate as the start but with smaller radius). This kind of start is really nice in order to give different equidistant spots where the pilots could regroup to get the start, and you wont have a crowded hotspot as on the exit start.
Finally there would be really nine if one could set different radius for each turnpoint on a task, and not only a default radius for all the turnpoints. This is because from time to time, the task committee would need to use a different radius on some turnpoints in order to keep the pilots out of dangerous or difficult areas.

Replying to bjorn.haugsgjerd@…:

Hi, this feature request has been mentioned in xcsoar forum before
( http://www.nabble.com/some-ideas-after-5-competitions-tasks-td19224740.html#a19224740),
but i could not find it reported in Bugzilla.

In the Task edit menu it would be nice to have the option of entering start gate
opening and closing time, and start time (Air start) and possibly also end of
task time. Maybe there could be a separate infobox for this information, or
perhaps it could be displayed as a countdown on the screen, overlaying the map?

This is perhaps mainly a paragliding issue, but paragliding pilots seem to be a
growing user group of XCSoar..

Thanks!

Maybe this can be coupled with the InfoBox? "Time on Task" since that one should be empty anyway before starting the task...