[Jared Russell]

Indianapolis (either immediately before or after IRI) would have been the ideal time and place for this event. It would add value to the trip (presumably the half-champs winners would get IRI invitations as well), would have supplied dozens of other teams worth of spectators, and would be closer to a central location (which, as we all know, is a top priority!).

That said, this is better than nothing and leaves open the door to media coverage with a higher level of polish than any prior FIRST competition has ever had. I'm sure all of the teams who qualify will be pumped to be involved.