Trinidad & Tobago Scrabble Association

in TNT!!
 
Open competitive  tournament  Scrabble is mostly an event of clubs throughout TNT;the TTSA also host a number of open tournaments ..At these tournaments ,any Scrabble player can enter and all are welcome ! Registration for all tounaments starts at 8.00am.Playtime 9.00am!!
The following is not meant to be instructions in the rules of these tournaments nor an examination  of the TTSA's regulations ( both of which will be sent to you when you join the Assoc.) but a simply guide to those who want to play the game at this level.

Do I have to bring my Scrabble set?                                                                                                             
 Yes, this is advisable although at  most open tournaments there is usually enough sets available you may never know if  there'll be a shortage.A pen is essential ! Score sheets are provided although you can use your own.Walk  with lunch and a snack if you must, these tournaments are whole day affairs-7 games each 50 mins. long. Prepare for an enjoyable day of Scrabble.

Do I have to use the Clock ?
   If your opponent insists you must . The digital Clock takes preference over the analog type.The Clock divides the game into 25 mins .per person.If you exceed that time you're penalised  10 points for every minute or part thereof  that you go over.SO WATCH IT ! WHEN YOU'VE COMPLETED YOUR PLAY (see tournament Rules) make sure to press the Clock every time!!

To challenge or not to challenge !?
When you challenge  a word , if it is acceptable your opponent adds 5pts. to his/her score. If is it not the word is removed from the board.If you do not know a word is it often better to give up 5 pts. than to accept ,as in the case of a bonus word,50pts. taking a 'bad' word.

Filling out the Scorecard
 The scorecard (not score sheet) is  useful  to not only keep track of  your game ,but  also helps  the pairing off  of players at the end of each  round  when the computer is not in use ,as at most open club tournaments.If you are unclear as to how it should be completed ,please clarify this with the Adjudicator before the start of play.