You're right Jorge.... It had/has to do with other issues than just being listed on a list of teams. Let's face it guys. AZ is not close for teams outside of the AZ/Cali region. To get there takes some major league planning. I know, I've done this fly in for a few comps in my career. If you are doing it at the last minute and have to fly in, you are probably out at least $1500 before the contest even starts... I can guarantee you that is probably the budget for 3 local teams if not more.
I for one would be happy to have the caliber of teams coming in. You get to see what we have to compete against on a weekly basis. I for one would be happy that teams are wanting to come from across the country to cook in my local contest. I'd still want to kick their asses, but it's still an honor to get your but kicked by them. I am fortunate... I've had my butt handed to me numerous times this year by these guys!!!
Don't get me wrong, Scotty, I am absolutley happy that we can get some big names out here, I think it is great for the southwest and especially Arizona. We put on some great events and the more exposure we get throughout the country the better.
My response was to Tim as he was talking about the possibility of teams that commit to contests but don't want their names listed as participants and so they held back entry till the last minute. Draw your own conclusions about what that is all about, but we have seen that out here before.
If you are in, say you are in and let it be known you are in. The promoters of the events have logistial issues to deal with, trying to accomodate last minute entries has got to be a pain in the a$$, and it is downright rude to call at the last minute and expect to be included because you are a so called "big name."
We all have to deal with last minute circumstances that cause us to change plans abruptly. This is understandable and I empathize with those who are in that predicament.
But anyone who believes that they are above any of the rest of us and think that they deserve special treatment just because they have been sucessful as of late might as well just stay at home. You are not my Brethern and as far as I am concerned you are not welcome here. I am sure most of us would agree that we don't need that kind of element among us.
I have met some great, down to earth people through the BBQ Brethern and other sites and contests. That is exactly what I like about this sport. Just good folks who enjoy competing against each other, while also having a good time together. If you are doing it for any other reason, then in my opinion you just don't get it.
Rant over!
