Competition Guide - FAQ
Q: What should one expect the event to cost?A: It depends a lot on the venue. If you can get the venue for free, a competition may not cost that much. However, you also need to consider the supplies you'll need or if you're able to rent/borrow some of them.
Q: How does one pay for all these costs?
A: Sometimes you can recoup the cost of a competition from the registration fees. However, you do take a risk that turnout will be lower and some of the cost will come out of your pocket. You could also try to find a sponsor.
Q: How do you estimate the number of expected competitors?
A: You can base that estimate on previous competitions held in the same area around the same time of year. If you're in an area that has never had a competition before, you can always try to gauge interest by asking online, but you'll have to be prepared for a much different number than your estimate. So if you expect 35 people to show up, don't get a room that can hold 45, since you'll have some spectators and perhaps more competitors than you think.
Q: How do you estimate the number of expected spectators?
A: It doesn't matter. People will show up to watch. Just make sure you have plenty of chairs (no one will want to stand).
Q: How do you know the proper time to hold the event so you get the maximum turn out?
A: Try not to host a competition in the same week of another competition nearby. Other than that, avoid hosting a competition somewhere remote during a busy week (ie - maybe exam weeks especially, since many cubers are also students).
Q: How and where do you get all the required equipment?
A: You could buy it, rent it, or borrow it. If you raise extra money at a competition, that can go towards buying more equipment for your next competition. Your WCA delegate might also have access to the necessary equipment, so ask them.
Q: How do you ensure it will be sanctioned by the WCA (i.e. what if no approved delegate can make it)?
A: If you're having trouble finding a delegate, perhaps offer to pay for their travel expenses.
Q: Why should I have to pay for the WCA delegate's travel expenses?
A: The WCA delegates may not be able to afford to go to any competition they're asked to attend. They will also help you out with organizing, so it may be worthwhile. Of course, ask the delegates anyway. If it's close by or they were planning on visiting the are anyways, it may not be an issue.