new bay pen to open in tyler texas

Glad to hear about another pen opening up in Texas. I use to love the competitions. Maybe I'll get back into them next year. They are a great way to learn about hogs and dogs and a chance to meet some wonderful people.
For a good turn out I would suggest trying to set it on a weekend that will not conflict with other Texas pens or at least not with the pens that are nearest to you. Try and get/keep large hogs in your pen. I know it's tough but if you can keep them around the 200-250lb mark your going to get your best results (with your runs and in turn out). As far as judging goes, I think a two man system is a minnimum but three is better (drop high and low or just take aggregate). Make sure judges are knowledgable and consistant. The worse thing that can happen is to have your judges labeled (home pen judges, play favorites, etc.). Give a fair cut on the prize money. Offer a 100% payback on Calcutta. Provide concessions. Do all that and you should be in great shape. I'll check it out in December!