[Ed Sparks]

The pre-qualification activities were compressed in order to get qualification match play up to 10 rounds. I like the idea of getting more opportunity to play matches but the 5-1/2 hours (2 hours limited to 5 in pit) will be a bit stressful on those of us who are determined to complete inspection by 8:30 Wednesday. It will also be very stressful to those of you who want to make significant changes within the guidelines of the rules.

Please don't forget that your opportunity to access the division field in the form of practice matches is also happening on Wednesday. You do not need to complete inspection to participate in your scheduled practice matches but you do need to complete inspection if you want to access the filler line.

My hope is that most of you will go ahead and knock out the inspection process asap if you have no changes or minor changes to make to your robot. Even if you make some changes after the initial inspection, we can deal with it after the inspection rush.

Keep in mind that we are there to help you and to keep your inspection paperwork accurate, we're not there to be a royal pain. Keep an open dialog with your inspector(s) and if there's anything that needs special attention, let the Division LRI know about it. Most of the CMP inspectors are very experienced inspectors and some are regional/division LRIs. You should expect that they will notice things that others have missed.

If you feel that you'd like a second opinion on an inspectors call, contact the Division LRI. That's why we get the BIG bucks. No harm, no foul if you feel strongly about the interpretation of a rule.

Above all, try to have fun. If you see a team struggling, jump in and help and/or let the Division LRI know so we can divert resources to those in need.