Here at the End of All Things, we look back upon GBHL Tourneys as vaguely as Frodo remembering the touch of grass or the taste of strawberries. The memories of opponents past bring tears to the eyes as potent as Sam thinking of Rosie Cotton dancing...
But now, we stand on the precipice of Covid restrictions ending in their current form; to allow big events once more.
Obviously, there's a mixture of feelings ahead of this momentous day. Some will be anxiously awaiting information about rules to keep us safe while we enjoy our beloved hobby, and others will be waiting with open arms to embrace friends they've not seen in months.
So here's an idea of how this will all happen when restrictions end on June the 21st (or on whatever date the Government decides to move to Step 4 of Covid Lockdown rules).
First things first, all GBHL events will be allowed to go ahead once Governments ease restrictions (yay). The 2020/21 season will continue and end as planned this December. And there will be no minimum or maximum capacities for any events (in the "World that Was", more competitive GBHL100 events had a minimum attendee number to allow for more people to have a shot at the big leagues).
Obviously, a large gathering of people indoors will be uncomfortable for some, so the GBHL is giving guidance to Tournament Organisers to try and create a safe environment for everyone:
The League Committee is strongly advising people to take Lateral Flow tests before attending tournaments. (They're available for free from the UK Government and some local NHS outlets).
It's also obviously important that no one attends events with Covid symptoms or a positive test.
We're also encouraging Tournament Organisers to be as accommodating as possible to anyone who tests positive for Covid in the days leading up to a tournament or if regional restrictions were to prohibit them.
Each venue will have different Covid restrictions in place depending on its location, but hand hygiene and good ventilation should be a prerequisite.
Mask policy will also vary depending on venue and local restrictions - make sure you check with the tournament organiser if you are unsure.
Tournament Organisers will be asked to keep contact details of attendees (with their consent) to aid Track and Trace if someone tests positive in the week following an event.
These rules may be added to, or expanded on, in the coming weeks as various Governments confirm how restrictions will look this Summer.
If you do have any personal concerns about anything feel free to contact a member of the management committee and we will be happy to help.
Most importantly, we will once again enjoy the thrill that is playing games of toy soldiers in a room full of enthusiasts. These past months have been tough for the huge number of us who get so much out of the camaraderie involved in playing multiple games of SBG over a weekend. Those desperate to scratch the itch of competing in the theatre of war at a GBHL100 event and exchange tales of woe or victory over a pint among friends will be able to once more...
Now you best get those lists written, and whip the paintbrushes out because there's not a lot of time left!
Some of the upcoming Tournaments in the GBHL are:
The Rings of Men (Nottingham) - June 26th and 27th
"Bring your themiest 700 point list and delve into Middle-earth in seven 2-hour games over the weekend where you can enjoy a number of unique scenarios centred around the Rings of Middle Earth. A host of Prizes are available for Places, Painting, and for Creating Objectives like your Hostage for whom you must stage a daring rescue and the many objective markers you'll need for the weekend. GBHL80 event
The Battle of Borough Dur - June 26th
Four games at 600pts for this one day tournament in London. Red alliances are banned, and you're encouraged to bring one army each of Good and Evil, though you may end up playing "Blue on Blue" occasionally.
The Guardians' Call To Helm's Deep - July 3rd and 4th
"Isengard has emptied, the Fighting Uruk-hai are marching, Rohan have mustered in Helm’s Deep, the White Rider has not been seen; will you stand and defend the world of Men? Or will you march to war with the hordes of the White Wizard? Our tournaments always run on a theme, and this one is no exception. There will be trophies for the podium places, but also awards for the best 3 armies on the Good and Evil side.So, will you accept the Guardians' Call to Helm’s Deep?"GBHL80 event
Lord of the Imps - The Two Powers - July 10th and 11th
Generals will battle with an 800pt Good or Evil army in a variety of thematic scenarios and gain bonuses for their alliance by winning battles on tables representing parts of Middle Earth. Cool list building restrictions; friendly banter between the Good and Evil side; with free lunch and booze on tap. GBHL80 event
Nirnaeth Arnoediad 2021 - July 17th and 18th
A De-Escalation tournament in Bangor Northern Ireland where generals bring 1000pts for the first games, and slowly decrease to 500 over the course of two days. You'll have a chance to win a free Ticket to Ardacon, and invite into the International Masters Event there.
The Ruin of Cheshire - July 17th
A 500pt 1 day competetive GBHL80 Event. Squeezing 4 games into this tourney at a lovely venue in Macclesfield.
A 500pt Tournament with a twist. Keep a kill tally for a hero of valour in your Good or Evil army, the hero with the most in the whole tournament is the winner of Valour Bowl. Normal tournament prizes also on offer in this event raising money for charity. GBHL80 event.
Into the West 2021 - July 24th and 25th
One of the longest running and largest GBHL events sees you bring a 450pt Good or Evil army (or both!) and compete in seven games over a weekend. There are secret missions, over 80 attendees (including some of the game's finest players, and an amazing gaming venue with a bar.
And many more! To see the full Calendar from August onwards check out the Calendar here, or head to the Events tab of the GBHL Facebook Page.
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