Ron,
That is never an excuse. With 17 guys going, all expenses are covered... We have a few guys going this year that have has some real financial issues this year. Everyone just steps up to the plate and does that they can. Some people are doing well this year, so they pick up the slack.
Besides, all the food is already purchased. If you ride with someone else, they the only cost to you is a tank of gas... Really not too bad.
Hope to see you there next year, you now have a year's notice now...
Same goes with the rest of you...