We're taking a few teams to this competition but I have never been. Anyone been there before, or going, and can share their thoughts of this competition?
__________________
Nelson
"I have no time to converse with you, I must be first to register my disgust on the internet regarding the new McBane film" - Comic Book Guy
We bring our teams there every year. As a whole, it is a great competition. There are usually 4 arenas with teams going at all times, divided up by divisions. For as large as the competition is, I don't think it could be run much better. It is free admission for everyone, and tons of stuff to do for all the kids. They get free gifts, there are tons of booths, and a really fun, exciting atmosphere the entire weekend. No matter how well your teams do, they will enjoy being there. The only complaint I had was that last year the competition was almost a little too large, as some of the divisions were 30+ teams deep, but I'm hoping that they have resolved that this year with the small gym and large gym separation. There are many big gyms that go there, so as a smaller gym there was no chance to really compete with them. BUT at the same time, you have World Cup, F5, Stingrays, and Gym Tyme at one competition, so who can complain?
ACE has gone the previous three years, but we won't be attending this year (we're going back to NCA instead). With Cheersport as my favorite competition, Jamfest is probably 1a and I'll really miss it.
The entire staff from Aaron, Dan & Emmitt to the people at the doors are VERY helpful. If you need something, just ask; they can probably make it happen.
The venue is large, but not as big as Cheersport, so you may only walk 15 miles instead of 25 for the weekend!
The venue is also connected to many hotels and the downtown Centre Circle Mall. That is good for families wanting to take a break, get some food and/or shop. It can be bad if you aren't careful to watch your time. Also, everyone should only go out with a buddy. Not that Indy is dangerous, but I've known kids to get turned around and "misplaced" for a bit. Less likely to happen with a buddy.
Jamfest has a free practice room that is first come-first served. Kinda nice to work out a kink or get in a few extra minutes.
For the little ones, Jamfest SN has a HUGE inflatible play area. I've heard lots of compliments from parents
One of the few complaints is about the awards ceremony. Jamfest really wants to do it up right for each team, but that takes a LOT of time. The final awards ceremony tends to run VERY late. Don't plan on flying out that night, because it won't happen.
EDITED to add: It usually is VERY cold. Each of the three trips we made, there was at least some snow and the highs were usually in the 20's.
If I think of anything else, I'll let you know. Feel free to ask specific questions.
ACE has gone the previous three years, but we won't be attending this year (we're going back to NCA instead). With Cheersport as my favorite competition, Jamfest is probably 1a and I'll really miss it.
The entire staff from Aaron, Dan & Emmitt to the people at the doors are VERY helpful. If you need something, just ask; they can probably make it happen.
The venue is large, but not as big as Cheersport, so you may only walk 15 miles instead of 25 for the weekend!
The venue is also connected to many hotels and the downtown Centre Circle Mall. That is good for families wanting to take a break, get some food and/or shop. It can be bad if you aren't careful to watch your time. Also, everyone should only go out with a buddy. Not that Indy is dangerous, but I've known kids to get turned around and "misplaced" for a bit. Less likely to happen with a buddy.
Jamfest has a free practice room that is first come-first served. Kinda nice to work out a kink or get in a few extra minutes.
For the little ones, Jamfest SN has a HUGE inflatible play area. I've heard lots of compliments from parents
One of the few complaints is about the awards ceremony. Jamfest really wants to do it up right for each team, but that takes a LOT of time. The final awards ceremony tends to run VERY late. Don't plan on flying out that night, because it won't happen.
EDITED to add: It usually is VERY cold. Each of the three trips we made, there was at least some snow and the highs were usually in the 20's.
If I think of anything else, I'll let you know. Feel free to ask specific questions.
-- Edited by ACEDAD at 10:28, 2009-01-03
-- Edited by ACEDAD at 15:22, 2009-01-03
Yeah, ACE is going to NCA! I can't wait to watch your teams "live"! They are so exciting. Congratulations on the paid bid to Worlds at WCA. It was well deserved!
