By 2010, the prize attracted 270 entrants.
The prize, which still stands but has been reduced to 7,500 marks, about $4,400, has attracted the world's "cranks," Dr. Edwards said.
The prizes - and the free publicity - attracted a lot of people who don't normally work for nothing.
In recent years the prize has attracted commercial sponsorship, but did not have any during the 2008 events.
Because it lacked a sponsor this year, the club was not able to offer stipends and large prizes to attract top runners.
And the big prize attracted players from all over the country and even from abroad.
The £100 prize for the first correct solution opened is unusually high for a crossword and attracts many entrants.
Even the prize - a spot in Libertadores - did not attract their attention.
A $5,000 first prize in a road race attracts newfangled contraptions from all over the land.
The prize can attract as many as 20 submissions, which are judged by volunteer faculty.