Medalist Worlds finally back on track

By Kenny Wright

As most of you know, I am a big supporter of the Medalist League, and most of you also know that I have not been completely happy with the World Championship tournaments the past couple years.

Well, this year changed again. This time for the better. Medalist held their World Championship tournament the first week of September. They went back to some of the old ways and added some great rules and benefits.

This year they went back to two tournaments a day and allowed players to choose their partner for each event. Why do I like this? It gives players the chance to come back later in the evening and try again if they do not do well in the first event. They can sleep in, see some sights, visit friends, then show up ready to play in the evening. It’s also good for players that do not completely click in the first one. They can choose a different partner and try again.

Medalist also rerated players on a day-to-day basis. I know this adds some complications on putting teams together when your partner gets rerated, but it was fair for all. I noticed that not many players did not get rerated by at least one point. I also know of some that got rerated by five. This is a good thing because nothing makes us more mad than the same person winning three nights in a row when we know he/she is rated too low.

I am happy to see that Medalist is back on track and, I think, moving forward. Next year should bring new scenery as well. Rumor has it the tournament will not be at the Riviera. It will be nice to have a change of location to somewhere that actually wants us there.

On to next year. Make sure you sign up and get qualified. Every year I ask people to get on a team in case they decide to go to Vegas, and every year there are about 20 of you that come to me at the last minute asking how you can get enough games in. Here is how; SIGN UP NOW, NOT IN AUGUST! Have some fun with friends and family and get your games in early. I hope to see you all in Vegas next year.