ok i saw that 2 on the cube and it seemed odd but i dismissed it as just an interface quirk. So the cube is actually turned? Anyway I did play around with this position a bit and running all the way seems to be correct for most configurations of score cube etc. As i mentioned in another post, the key seems to be those 2 checkers on the 23 point. That leaves an extra gap and disconnects from the potential prime starting on the other side. If they are moved up by one pip, it changes everything and leaving a single blot at the mercy of the threat isn't recommended unless you throw the opponent off balance with a kick to the bar.

Xavier has established himself as the undisputed king of backgammon AI software, and has also maybe still running an online bg server. I have nothing but the utmost admiration and respect for him. Everyone has their own angle of what they want out of the game. Sometimes we can get so far into the analysis we forget what the point of it all is. It is a game. For friends to get together, have a few drinks, play small stakes laugh and enjoy a good time. Here is a YouTbe video i had posted in rgb of an example of bg fun. I thought it was kinda funny. friendly game of backgammon

cheers!