 Receiving around 1,200 entries Gallico shortened the application period to limit the number of contestants.Overwhelmed with the enormous response, he called for help from fellow newsman, Al Copeland (organizer of the Silver Skates), and Dr. Thomas DeNaouley (who oversaw the physicals process).Playoffs were to take place at two local venues, but Copeland soon realized that two sites were not enough to complete the playoffs on time and added 15 more venues.