Gentlemen
I think the idea of a national tournament (Hammer of the Gods) is awesome. I think however that because of the impressive response we are getting from all walks (South Bend, NYC, Chicago, Milwaukee, Virginia etc.)- maybe we should have regional tournaments (all with identical formats dictated by our fearless ruler Gantry) and then each region sends the champion to Chicago (perhaps the plane fare is the prize for winning the local tournament).
I just think that it isn't that realistic to get the best players to fly to Chicago unless it is somehow subsidized. And that's the goal- getting the best players there.
Whatever- just a thought.
Conduct it just like the NCAA tournament. For example, Manhattan & Upstate NY have their own regionals, then winners advance to play each other, then winners advance to play Southern region. Winner of that flies to Chicago to play in a Sweet Sixteen type thing, with Midwest finalists (Chicago, Milwaukee, South Bend), West finalists (Cali, Zona etc.)
BTW, Bob Stanley was brilliant last night. Nice change of pace from Clemens' gas.
That would be rather neat, but it would be pretty tough to organize. I know I'm too lazy for it...
After the big tourneys this year, we'll have a more of a grasp about what's in store. I'm all for it though...