its not racing, its judged in the same manner as bmx/surfboard/skateboard comps. you dont see surfers racing through the water for 1st place at the billibong international do you?

even in tandem you are not awarded extra points for going out of your way to pass a contender, but if you can do so and still maintain good angle and reach clipping points then its a bonus. they would rather you stay close, fender to door more than anything.