Both my dogs run performance; neither has the slightest issue with time, so the extra seconds don't affect us one way or the other, they are both just on the low end of their height class.
Around here, the performance division is nearly as competitive as the championship. I don't think anyone blinks at someone choosing to run performance, especially given the difference in venue heights. When I was going back and forth on what I was going to run Gusto at (17" dog, so should run 22"), people were very quick to say "Why in the world would you jump him 22"? Put him in performance." I've never felt a glimmer of disrespect or judgement from anyone at trials regarding running performance, just on forums
.