To compare the standard Viking events and the standard SE events I would say they are on par. The nice think about Tommy's events, IMO, is that they feature races to 9 for the Sunday matches where the Viking events tend to be race to 7 throughout. I prefer the longer matches. Other than that I think both tours are very good for the game, and for the players who attend them. The only thing we need to see is more of them.
As for the UPA event vs. the Southern Classic, the SC was much, much better. I think it showcases a trend that should continue in the sport where the events feature multiple tournaments in multiple disciplines and allow the players with all-around skills to fare better than the specialists. It also lets the fans of the different games see their favorite players playing their favorite games, which is terrific for everyone. I think most people agree with me that events like this and the Derby City Classic are what we all enjoy the most.
Also, though I rode you in the past about how you run tournaments, you really did a great job last week, and so did your 'staff' (Matt did a great job in particular). The only error I think you made was in the scheduling in the one-pocket final, where the match had that long delay while the calcutta was taking place for the eight-ball but that was no big deal. Other than that everything was perfect and I can't wait for next year.
BB
