Ask not what BITS can do for you...
Blood in the Sun was my first foray into the world of competitive Warhammer Fantasy. The weeks leading up to BITS was a frantic push of painting and prepping. So much so that I was convinced that I would be burnt out and not pick up a brush for months afterward.
Not the case.
Quick back story. I have taken part in dozens of 40k tournaments, a hand full of Blood Bowl events, and a Warmachine league. This is by far the most fun I have had at an event.
Friday was a group event, 1600 point team tournament. Travis Mayes and I got there in time to participate. A good tune up for the main event. So, three solid games on Friday. Saturday and Sunday were the actual tournament. 5 games over 2 days at 2400 points.
My end result was not representative of my experience. I finished in the bottom third. 2 wins, 2 losses, and a draw. I'll take it. It was what I learned and the experience that was the real reward.
First. Painting is important. Modelling is important. I thought I was a solid painter. Somewhere in the middle of the pack. Not the case. I need to take my time and expand my techniques. Some of the product that was presented at BITS was amazing.
Second. It's not just about Warhammer. It's a community. Saturday was Warhammer awesome from 9Am until 6Pm. Then, after dinner, the gaming continued. Board games, card games... More Warhammer. It was truly and awesome day.
Everyone I played was fun to play against. My favorite opponents were Stephen Thompson (Chaos Warriors) Jason Vargas (Tomb Kings) and Chris Sladowski (Empire)... two of those were my wins, but lest you think I only enjoy games in which I prevail... Stephen Thompson trounced me. I enjoyed that game as much as any game I won.
I should also point out that I had a game during the team tournament on Friday against a Chaos Dwarf player named Dan Bell. My first time playing Chaos Dwarfs and it was a good time. Dan and his army were a fun challenge.
So, I get home and head right out for a week of camping, and the entire time I am chomping at the bit to get home and start painting minis again. Plastic Crack.
