The issue of teachers competing has been raised several times and amongst those who I have heard discuss it there seems to be a concensus that there should be 3 levels in London and the likes of Blackpool :
1. Intermediate
2. Advanced
3. 'Open'
No-one can be told to go into a particular category and there are usually some excellent dancers in the Intermediate section who could probably compete in the Advanced.
As you said in a previous meesgae - there are those who would welcome the chance to compete against the likes of Viktor but he is so far ahead of almost everyone else that you may as well give him and Lydia first prize and get everyone else to compete for second place.
As you also said, many teachers are clearly not the best dancers so maybe barring teachers just gives these dancers even more chance to win ! BUT............ the advantage for teachers, especially Ceroc is that they have been 'trained' and know all the moves propely and can adopt a 'Ceroc' style. Others will disagree but I think there is a particular style although once they have passed many teachers will then develop their own particular style.
I also think there would be much more prestige for the winners if they competed against their peers rather than normal 'punters'. Can you imagine folk like yourself Gus competing alongside Viktor & Lydia, Nigel& Nina etc.... Who on earth would judge that ?????
Doubt if I've answered your question but maybe others will have a go.
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