Yes. Preach brother 
Definitely have a pre-qualifying event for a shot at Kona. You have to qualify to have a shot at even qualifying for Kona, preferably the season before and at 70.3. Keep that money truck rolling.
I’m also all for split races.
First off: Pro’s and all KQ wannabes across all age groups. There must only be circa 400 in any one race??? No harm in letting them all go as one, surely?
Let them get a lap in, or 22 minutes, whatever…
…then the IMJers can set off with their paddles and pull buoys, before getting on their eBikes and finally AlphaFlying over the line.
(I jest, but I do think that’d make a better experience for everyone)