Holy cow guys...didn't mean to stir things up. Really.
Before we even participated in our first contest, we took the KCBS judging course to figure out what judges would be looking for. I think it helped us, and think it was a smart move to make.
Yes, we did finish lower than we expected...and yes, I had a hard time dealing with it this time around.
I do think the judges were particularly rough on the teams. What got me is the fact that scores could be 5 points apart on the same meat.
I just think it would add insight to what I need to work on if I took a judging course for BCS. Nothing more intended than that.
I will point out that I've noticed that when a judging class is offered just before a large event there are a lot of first time judges in the tent...no matter where the event is or who puts it on.
I do want to say Mike puts his heart and soul into his events and it shows.
He does a fantastic job, is available on sight, and works to make the teams happy. I really appreciate what he does for BBQ.