What's your favourite gear ratio?

higher inches = more speed right?

nop, the speed is in your legs

Is the chain length critial in this?

yes, less teeth, less chain

And if I understand it a track chain and crank will mean better strength (less chance of chain break under pressure) and increased control??

nop, at least for you that are starting (yes for Hoy)
and nop, again, "increase control".... dont drink, sleep 8h, that sort of things