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BGonline.org Forums
Pgh LAbor Day BG Tourn- Director's Decision
Posted By: Phil Simborg In Response To: Pgh LAbor Day BG Tourn- Director's Decision (Alfred Mamlet)
Date: Tuesday, 4 September 2012, at 2:10 p.m.
Not quite every round, as there was a round involving Stick that was delayed partially, and while I greatly respect that not everyone has the same values and preferences, EVEN WHEN I had opponents who played fast and time was not an issue, I was thinking how much more I would enjoy the match if there was a clock. Every time I watched a match, and I saw players take a lot of time on a given play, I wondered if they would have taken as much time with a clock.
The game is simply a better game with a clock for many reasons, including the many advantages of using a single set of dice and using the clock to signify the end of the turn.
I firmly believe that those players who feel strongly against using the clock would eventually have no problem playing with it once they get used to it. Those players who simply think there is nothing wrong with a backgammon match taking several hours will never change their minds, and sad to say, it is best for the game and the rest of us that they simply stop competing in wtournaments. (I am sure there are some that stopped playing because they hated the doubling cube when it was first introduced, and others who hated the Crawford Rule, and now, others who hate the baffle box, which I also believe is a great improvement to the game for many reasons).
I also believe that clocks should be required in the Intermediate Division for the same reasons it improves the game for the Open players...simply allow more time for the first couple of years so that there is little time pressure and everyone gets a chance to get used to the mechanics.
As to Alfred's comment, in a modified Swiss where there are set starting times 2 hours apart with 9 point matches, it's easy to see why there is rarely a time problem finishing, but that is not how most tournaments work and a clock is essential to keep the tournament moving. But clocks also add to the play of the game EVEN IF there is not a schedule concern, and for that reason, I even believe clocks should be used in the finals to keep that match at a level playing field and to make the game better for the spectators. We need to encourage more spectators for the game to grow, and I know that a 3 or 4 hour finals match is not going to keep too many people's attention and keep the match exciting.
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