[EricH]

Originally Posted by KarenH

I don't know about those particular teams, but I was astonished to see a rookie team, 2340, seeded 3rd on Galileo. In Curie, 2337 was seeded 2nd; they even made it to their division semifinals. With this kind of performance from rookies, I wouldn't be too concerned about who wins the Championship. It could very well be one of them next year.

Anyone remember one of the 2006 rookies with the number 1902?

Division finalist, Archimedes (where 217 won before carrying their win to Einstein).

2007: Division champ. (Sorry, I don't remember the division, but they weren't Curie or Newton.)

I too wouldn't be too worried.

On to the topic: Yes. Any team with the funds can do it. Many teams do do two regionals.

For the "only win awards at one event" crowd--FLL already does that, at least for qualifying for the next level. There are some teams that aren't exactly happy about that. This might lead to teams intentionally seeking out weak regionals so they can qualify. I don't think that's what FIRST wants--or what you want. Do you really want to be trounced by a top team who came there only to add to their trophy collection or get into Championships?

And, a question for the OP: Is FIRST REALLY fair?