2019 GAYP National Tournament

[John Acker]

According to the ACF's Facebook account, the 2019 Nationals will be held in Las Vegas in August. I would like to know the details of this bid and why it was selected, since nothing about the bid was presented to ACF members for evaluation, and since at least one other bid was rejected despite popular support.

John Acker

P.S. I tried posting this question on the ACF Facebook page itself, but Kim Willis immediately deleted my comment.

[Alex_Moiseyev]

John, as ACF Player Representative and member of ACF Executive Committee I can answer you on behalf of ACF.

After initial preliminary VA bid from Victor Habgood was done, it was accepted by ACF and we voted for this. However later when ACF tried to contact with Victor about details, dates, anything etc - it was unsuccessful attempts many times. He just simply didn't respond on emails and this started bother us. We had a lot of emails from people and also questions on Internet.

Las Vegas bid came on board last minute, Kim Wills negotiated deal and contract with Plaza hotel and we all - 4 members of ACF Executive Committee, voted again (4 YES) to replace bid.

I am sorry for not very good news, but we (ACF) really didn't have much choice. I know and respect Victor. if he had some problems - he should better just come to us, share it and maybe we could find solution to save bid. But he didn't.


Regards,

AlexM

[vhabgood]

I definitely think the details of that response are not correct. I am guessing your source here is Kim Willis? I asked her for clarification multiple times and got nothing. I think getting her involved in anything was a mistake. Alan was the only help I got for any details and my team was doing a great job in developing a business exposition with the tournament that was going to raise somewhere between 5-6 thousand dollars. The Chesapeake board of commerce hasn't been the quickest to approve our proposal, but to be honest, we really shouldn't have required them to have a decision within two weeks. We had two hotels, a date, a proposal, a committee, and funds.

With all that being said, this was a great lesson learned that I think will do much smoother next time. I have spoken with Alan and we plan on doing this again in the future and submitting all this a little more in advance next time. I respect the committee's decision and I hope it works out for a great event! I have always wanted the best for the players and the game.

[Alex_Moiseyev]

Victor, I am sorry to hear this. I wish I contact with you before I vote. Shame on me.

AleM

[rich beckwith]

Going to Las Vegas alone and want to split a room? I received an inquiry from a male checker player (new to the tournament scene) who is seeking a roommate (non-smoking, non-snoring). Please message me if interested or email beckwith24@msn.com. Or you may e-mail Pete directly at slspete@cox.net.

[rich beckwith]

Please consider donating to the ACF 2019 GAYP tournament. Donations are very much needed this year. Checks may be sent to:

American Checker Federation
Richard Beckwith
34490 Ridge Road #115
Willoughby, OH 44094

Or donate via Paypal on ACF Store using below link (set Dollar amount in box)

http://www.usacheckers.com/store/index. ... duct_id=52

[WatsonFranks72]

What is expected prize money at this tourney?

Thanks

[rich beckwith]

As of now, prize fund is approx. $5000. I received and deposited a $4000 check for Oldbury Fund, but, by Oldbury's wishes and tradition, that $4000 is earmarked for the Top 5 Masters. Beyond that, we will have entry fee money and personal donations (hopefully more to come).

[WatsonFranks72]

so of the 5000, 4000 of it is ear marked?

[John Acker]

I think $5000 is the general prize fund and $4000 is extra for the Masters.

[WatsonFranks72]

thanks john

[rich beckwith]

Still debating about Las Vegas? I spoke with Plaza today, and they agree to extend group-rate reservation deadline until Friday the 16th (previously due Aug 2). Cost is about $52 a night for Sunday-Thursday nights (more if you stay on any weekend nights). 1-800-634-6575, group code SPACF19.

To clarify about my previous post, the $5000 I mentioned was an estimated total prize fund, at the time.