I’m between a 4.0 and a 4.5 but am closer to a 4.5. I would much rather play up than down. When I told people I’m playing 4.5 at Beer City (or it should be called Sandbag City) they said “play down, everyone else does.” But not me. I was so sure that people would stick to their level but boy was I wrong. 95% of people played at least one level below them. And why? Are they scared they can’t beat people who are their level or better? The top three teams in this bracket were rated 4.8 and above. Not a single 4.5 was on that medal stand. I was nervous at the beginning of this match because even in their warmup I knew they were sandbaggers. I am not a 5.0 so I knew I wouldn’t be able to handle them to a certain extent, and guess what- I was right. They weren’t playing a level with people their skill level, they played down so it was easier for them, making it harder for us. It’s sad to see that this is allowed and will probably be continued to be allowed. I’m hopeful they’ll feel some shame always medaling in a level below them, but maybe that’s because they just want a medal and not the pride of beating the best.
13 июл 2024
