This past weekend, the wild and crazy beer pong tournament, which we were sponsoring, was shut down by Texas’s Alcohol and Beverage Commission (TABC). The hosts of the event did their best to compromise with the TABC and even offered to play the event with water in the cups, instead of beer. However, the commission was unwilling to budge in any way and claimed that since the participants could win cash prizes, the event was considered a gambling event (Strange! I thought gambling was based largely on luck, not skill). The event host pointed out that “it is no different than offering a prize at a bowling tournament”, but there was no convincing the TABC.
There are many problems with narrow beer pong policies, such as these. Namely, they hinder the ability of bars to hold beer pong tournaments on their premises. Beer pong, a hugely popular activity that is the catalyst of countless fun & organized gatherings, could be a source of additional revenues for bars. By impeding bars ability to hold pong events, groups like the TABC are creating one more obstacle for bar owners during difficult economic times. If the TABC and others like them really want to help, they should permit beer pong in bars, and if need be, place binge drinking regulations from there (i.e. the bar is responsible for cutting people off if they are becoming too drunk).
In the end, beer pong will continue to grow. There are too many enthusiasts for it to be hindered by a few officials that just don’t get it. Beer pong enthusiasts have shown their commitment in the past. In Delaware, Senator Della introduced a bill that would prohibit bars or businesses from holding pong tournaments. After ONE DAY, she withdrew the bill saying “we’re getting inundated with so many e-mails that I don’t have the time to fool with it.” Way to go Maryland BP! We like the organization!
Tags: beer pong in bars, beer pong laws, beer pong prohibited, beer pong prohibited in bars, beer pong rights
