Looking at organising another team rapidplay event at Imperial College after the success of the previous one at very little notice. Due to various hoops to jump through in these times of budget-cutting, it has been suggested that it's easier to budget for and get an event approved (i.e. venue secured etc.) if there was no prize money at a tournament (although I believe this is still possible, just makes things more complicated). This presented an interesting question that I thought I'd put to the members of the forum.
I was wondering if people would be more or less interested in an event if there was no prize money at a one-day rapidplay tournament (There would still be prizes for weekend congresses I think, this question applies only to the 4-man team rapidplay event) but entry fees were reduced? For instance, we may be able to offer (subject to confirmation so this isn't set in stone yet) £10-per-person entry fees for the entire day (6 graded games) and possibly also subsidise with free tea/coffee at the venue for all players, and still have trophies for the winning teams. This would be in lieu of prize money. Alternatively, a more expensive format (something like £15 per person perhaps) with some prize money could be kept.
For those in London who have played in events in the past or may consider playing in this one, I'd be interested in hearing your views on the format - and even for everyone else, do you think this is a good idea? Please note that in either case, the event would not be able to offer conditions anyway (although with prize money there is an obvious incentive for strong players to pop along and attempt to mop up, I acknowledge). Would be interested on hearing your views which would help us make a decision, and looking forward to announcing an event before the end of the month!
![Smile :)](./images/smilies/icon_smile.gif)
All the best,
John