Our Beginners' DBA tournament at ATC had 20 participants, eight of whom were newcomers to the game. This was the largest number, by far, of new players we've introduced to DBA at this event. It caught me by surprise, and the introductory session was a bit disconnected, as I'd planned for a smaller number. With what we managed to get across in the early session and matching up the beginners with more experienced players, it seemed that most were getting comfortable with the game by the end of the tournament.

Five rounds were planned for, but the smaller number of participants (compared to last year) and the results of the first three rounds combined to allow us to come to a decisive result after four rounds. We were also able to arrange more historical match ups for many of the games than in previous years. Thanks to Dick Keyel for assisting with that part of the set up. A big thank-you to John Leahy for donating gift certificates for his painting service as prizes. And, as always, a special thanks to the "old timers" in the event for helping the new folks to learn the rules and some of the tactics of play.

(Editor's Note: My own apologies to Dennis for ducking out of his tourney after three rounds to watch my Buckeyes play on TV...no excuse!).

Here are the results:
1. Mike Stelzer 97 out of 100 possible pts.
2. Dave Zecchini 75
3. Dick Keyel 75
4. Keith Finn 71
4. Rich Smethhurst 71
6. John Lawitze 67
7. Ted Bender 53
8. Alan Winterrowd 52
9. Mike Demana 51
10. Jim Doty 50
10. Steve Sattler 50
12. Joseph Bower 49
13. Harvey Hams 48
14. Gary Overmeyer 32
15. Ken Bower 28
15. Tom Bryant 28
15. Steve Cole 28
18. Heidi Bender 24
19. Bob Boggs 23
20. Sean Winterrowd 4