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BGonline.org Forums
Update from Maryland
Posted By: Bill Riles In Response To: Update from Maryland (Rich Munitz)
Date: Saturday, 16 October 2010, at 2:38 p.m.
Foremost, let me say that I like Chiva and I very much appreciate what he is trying to do with the promotion of several tournaments in the States. However, I lack confidence in the viability of a European director/promoter, with his associated greater expenses, successfully hosting tournaments in the States in the current economic and backgammon environments.
I think several facts influence the relatively small turnouts thus far at his tournaments -- several of us discussed this issue in Peoria last weekend.
First, particularly initially for Chiva's tournaments with small turnouts, four day events are unnecessary and counterproductive. Individuals, even those local to the tournament, must allot at least one extra day (including the hotel expense) and all must endure extended periods of no play during the unnecessarily long schedule. This was certainly the case in Florida in August with 30 players in the Championship division and will be even moreso the case in Maryland with only 18 players in the Championship division. Over time, with, hopefully, ever increasing attendance perhaps a four day event becomes viable -- but not now.
Secondly, in an era of tough economic times, limited backgammon interest, and decreasing tournament attendance, I think it counterproductive to significantly raise tournament fees (in comparison to many other ABT events). I think fee increases must lag attendance growth. Every director deserves to make a reasonable profit, after expenses. Chiva's expenses, particularly travel and time, are obviously significantly greater than those of a local director.
Finally, location is a huge consideration. Continuing the existing tournaments in Ft. Lauderdale and Towson were reasonable decisions -- though the specific venues are not optimum. Previous Ft. Lauderdale events closer to the airport were preferable and, though I've never been to Towson, it is my understanding that it is difficult to reasonably access -- and I'm not including consideration of Richard's travails, he apparently would have a hard time finding the White House ... lolol. (Only teasing, Rich.) The new San Francisco tourney is a great location in an area with a lot of players and a lot of things to do if someone wants to stay over a bit (see the Santa Fe tourney).
I think Chiva's original idea of moving the US Open around the country each year to different cities, with the consequent exposure to more players, was much preferable to permanently basing it in Ft. Lauderdale -- which already has a tournament with its own problems (see above).
Anyway, this posting is not meant as a pure critique, it is intended to stimulate a discussion of constructive suggestions which might assist Chiva, and others, in the promotion of successful tournaments in the States. I want that, and I'm sure everyone else does as well. So, we should be proactive in our suggestions in addition to being reactive in our attendance decisions.
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