In spite of the sometimes crazy room allocations (there was possibly more walking than some teams were expecting), Round 2 of this year's massive 3-on-3 internal competition was another great success. Following Phil's training on the many intricacies of rebuttal, teams demonstrated their knowledge (or lack thereof) of foreign affairs, debating the topic 'That if Robert Mugabe does not stand down, the West should remove him by force'. 5 Affirmative teams and 8 Negative teams won.

For those who are interested in learning more about the context of this topic, and Zimbabwe's fragile political climate in general, here are some recent links to articles from The Economist and The Guardian (both publications that all debaters should become acquainted with):

While the turnout was generally very good, teams are reminded that they are expected to be present by 6:00 at the latest, ready for the roll call at 6:05. Arriving later just causes us further headaches, and that's the last thing anyone needs. Teams who choose not to arrive at all can look forward to facing the full force of our wrath. The quality of the competition relies on people turning up every week - and if you don't turn up it not only irritates us but ruins the night for the team who were expecting to debate you.

Thanks to everyone who did come, especially those who had to put up with the strange rooms. Sadly, Round 3 is not until May 6, which is like three weeks away, so you'll have to be patient. Hopefully we'll see many of you at the adjudication training next week, and Easters after that.

Tom Sutherland & Chris Lum
Internal Competitions Officers