Albert E. Cram, M.D. wrote:
>
> I just had another thought that might help the banquet dilemma. As long as
> I'm not getting the jacket for first place you can mail me my trophy or
> I'll pick it up at the end of the banquet. I don't need to go across the
> stage to feel the sense of accomplishment. I do think it is nice for
> everyone who doesn't already know them to see the National Champion in
> person, but who remembers what the 11th place guy looked like unless he or
> she was a friend or acquaintance. Or perhaps bring the top 3 like formula
> one. I still want the trophy if I earn one under current rules but I don't
> need to clutter up your dessert and coffee to feel the thrill of the
> accomplishment.
> Al Cram
> Old Duffer Racing
My three trophy suggestion aside, I like this idea and had thought of
something similar myself. Maybe they could simply read off the names of
the 4th through whatever trophy position; that group gets a nice round
of applause, then they bring up the "podium" finishers. It would
certainly shorten the process a bit.
I also liked someone elses suggestion of a participation plaque for
every competitor. Just going to Nationals is an accomplishment to be
remembered, and a momento of the occasion would be neat. I still
believe that only three trophies does not take anything away from the
other finishing positions. (BTW, I do not belive that top finishers are
"diluted" by the other trophies as has been suggested, and that is not
the motivation behind my idea.) The trophies end at a somewhat
arbitrary point IMO...why is 13th a "trophy" and 14th not? Is there
some history behind the formula? Anyway, 8th place is still 8th place
whether someone says it is a "trophy" or not, and pride in that
accomplishment is not diminished either way.
And Al, I would respect your accomplishment of placing in the top 20
percent whether you got a trophy or not. (I believe that next year, you
will.) Not trying to change the world...just kicking around ideas.
PLW
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