03-04-2014, 09:29 PM
I don't believe weekend congresses are the main place young players would be getting experience against the 23/24/2500 players anyway David?
The events you have held, the SNCL, 4NCL and European opens are where most of this experience is gained. Playing 1 titled player every couple of months in a weekender, as good as that may be, won't make the difference.
I prefer it when very strong players enter congresses, but how much of a factor is the free entry, etc. in enticing them, and does a lack of these things really lead to the downward spiral Jonathan suggests? Adam's post gives an example; Glenrothes numbers were up and I was top seed - not a titled player in sight. Some statistical evidence at least would be required to sway me on this one.
The sponsorship ideas are interesting. I understand the economic climate is still poor in this respect, but not desperately so. Not sure how sponsors would view a cut of their money going to those who go out and find it though?!
The events you have held, the SNCL, 4NCL and European opens are where most of this experience is gained. Playing 1 titled player every couple of months in a weekender, as good as that may be, won't make the difference.
I prefer it when very strong players enter congresses, but how much of a factor is the free entry, etc. in enticing them, and does a lack of these things really lead to the downward spiral Jonathan suggests? Adam's post gives an example; Glenrothes numbers were up and I was top seed - not a titled player in sight. Some statistical evidence at least would be required to sway me on this one.
The sponsorship ideas are interesting. I understand the economic climate is still poor in this respect, but not desperately so. Not sure how sponsors would view a cut of their money going to those who go out and find it though?!