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BGonline.org Forums
Its time to think about World backgammon federation
Posted By: Albert Steg In Response To: Its time to think about World backgammon federation (Florin Popa)
Date: Wednesday, 22 February 2017, at 5:15 p.m.
Is there actually general feeling that the 'Stars' of backgammon aren't being well enough represented in the finals, or the final four, of enough major tournaments? And is there really a feeling that it's "bad for backgammon" when, for instance, the finalists in San Antonio this year don't turn out to be the usual 'Giants' with the smallest PR ratings? Really?
Speaking just for myself, as a middling Open player at best, seeing players of my caliber -- and sometimes weaker -- popping up in the finals or even winning tournaments from time to time contributes a strong sense of "Hey, it could happen to me!" And I have to think that's part of the appeal of the game -- and that's why chouettes are a popular pastime -- everybody gets a great day now and then. I have to think this is a widely shared feeling, and gives backgammon much of its competitive excitement.
Assuming we succeeded in making backgammon a popular spectator game like poker, would it really be the case that the players with the smallest PR's would make the best spectacle? Wouldn't audiences be drawn in by the scrappy underdog who lucked his way into a major final? Wouldn't spectators be more likely to take up the game if they occasionally saw players at their own level meet with success? (Isn't part of the appeal of poker that it looks easy to play on TV?).
I think Neil's point is extremely important that where all players are paying the same Entry Fee they should be treated equivalently in the draw. If a sponsor is footing the bill for the whole contest, then absolutely, that sponsor can seed the event however they please. All participants would be thrilled just to be invited.
Albert
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