Take a look at the world open prizes. Also, at the top the "Open Section" is often 2200 and up. Throw in 1 or 2 2700 GMs and the 2200 guy is possibly gonna have to play players 400 and even 500 points higher rated while the class guys only play within their own 200 point group. How is this fair ? It seems the better players are punished for becoming stronger players. If I were just starting out in chess I would see more incentive ( $$$$ ) in keeping my rating artificially low so I could have better chances of winning big cash prizes and thats what many people do today.
The bizarre thing is having a < 1800 group with big cash prizes, isn't it?
I mean, having a < 1800 group -- fine, great. But why the big cash prizes?
At closer reading, you appear to agree :-)
How else do you attract those developing players to the tournament? Keep them interested in Chess to eventually become the Grandmasters that draw the sponsors?
I agree that it's not without it's problems, and may benefit from a revamp, but there is a rationale behind it.
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