[spanito]

Being a boater I think the guaranteed entry works well. Obviously there are pros and cons to each side.
With mounting costs for entries, fuel, accom, meals and frothies I would much prefer to offer guaranteed entry to someone and have them travel with me to keep me entertained on the long trips and also to share some of these costs.
Not sure the non boater field would be as big as it is if it wasn't for guaranteed entry as a lot of people coordinate their rides with boaters.