RKPayne:
Why does practice mode make it unfair? That is the only way you can have everyone playing the same tees and same conditions, which is the intent of the tournament.
Agreed, same tees, equipment and conditions for all. I think DB has got it right. Possibly would have been a good idea to split it into tiers TL, Legend, TM and Masters and below. Then have a playoff between the winners of each tier leading to a grand finale. Maybe in the future.
The problem with any event like this is time zones and can be a logistical nightmare.
Good luck to all involved.
EDIT: I see you say a player who disconnects three times will be disqualified. I think under practice mode after 1 disconnect the game is over, but I could be wrong on that.