Glueing up an Octagon

A recent project had me gluing up an elongated octagon to turn into an oval. Gluing the joints proved to be really trying and I eventually used pocket screws to provide the clamping power till the glue dried.

What do others use to glue the joints where two mitered cut are joined. I am not a big fan of the biscuits, but would rather use dowel pins. How do other LJs apply the clamping force with clamps only?

Thanks for your help and incite.