07-04-2022, 11:38 PM
Alan Tate notified me today that he intended to post on this thread in a personal capacity. That is perhaps a measure of the diligence and professionalism that he bring to the International Director's role and I look forward to continuing a strong working relationship with him whatever the results of these votes.
It is difficult to respond to everything that Alan has said without seeming to offer an opinion on what CS's eligibilty criteria should be, which is something that I don't want to do. However, I think it is important that I comment on what I think is a misconception.
"There was a gentleman's agreement that MT would not be eligible for Scottish Champion or for Scottish team spots."
Back in 2011, there was certainly an understanding that I didn't meet the eligibility criteria for team selection and presumably the Scottish Championship (although this debate was somewhat clouded by CS moving from a Closed to an Open championship at around the same time). In simple terms then, there was a recognition that I WAS not eligible.
There was never an understanding, or gentleman's agreement, that I WOULD not be eligible (forever). Indeed, I have consistently said that I would very much like to represent Scotland at a team event in future. I have also consistently said that I would not campaign to change the eligibility rules. Both those things are as true now as they were 11 years ago.
I hope that explains my position.
I have voted myself and hope others will do likewise. I am certainly not advocating people vote in a certain direction, but I think it is important that members exercise their rights.
Best wishes,
Matt
It is difficult to respond to everything that Alan has said without seeming to offer an opinion on what CS's eligibilty criteria should be, which is something that I don't want to do. However, I think it is important that I comment on what I think is a misconception.
"There was a gentleman's agreement that MT would not be eligible for Scottish Champion or for Scottish team spots."
Back in 2011, there was certainly an understanding that I didn't meet the eligibility criteria for team selection and presumably the Scottish Championship (although this debate was somewhat clouded by CS moving from a Closed to an Open championship at around the same time). In simple terms then, there was a recognition that I WAS not eligible.
There was never an understanding, or gentleman's agreement, that I WOULD not be eligible (forever). Indeed, I have consistently said that I would very much like to represent Scotland at a team event in future. I have also consistently said that I would not campaign to change the eligibility rules. Both those things are as true now as they were 11 years ago.
I hope that explains my position.
I have voted myself and hope others will do likewise. I am certainly not advocating people vote in a certain direction, but I think it is important that members exercise their rights.
Best wishes,
Matt