So lets clarify this statement vs just throwing it our there as blanket fact.
Race motors use vertical gas ports, not your daily driver 200hp weezer.
Many aftermarket pistons come with lateral gas ports now instead that function very similar.
Race engines make what, 2x-3x the stock power on average. Your now asking a lot out of that ring, to seal all that extra heat and force in. Your also talking a ring that is less than .060" thick, not the monster .078" stock rings.
The upside is that the rings will wear faster, but less wear on the cylinder wall itself.
Reduced surface area means less drag, but also less area to break down and wear out.
So, yes they do wear out faster, but for good reason.;-)
