We opened the call for precon speakers for the inaugural SQLRally (May 11-13, 2011) a few weeks ago and I wanted to remind everyone that we're taking abstracts through midnight PST, Oct. 15, 2010. The application is available here (free registration required) and I've copied the list of prerequisite qualifications below. Note that Summit pre\postcon speakers are ineligible to do a precon at the SQLRally so there's less competition standing in your way if you've never done a precon but think you're ready to take the next step. If you meet the prereqs but still aren't sure I encourage you to take the time to put something together. Worst case it's a learning experience for you; best case you get accepted, earn up to $2,000, and have the chance to make a name for yourself. Who knows, you might be the next Paul Randal in waiting!

Intent
Our first goal is to select a set of seminars that will be interesting to a broad set of conference attendees that will be perceived as worthy of the additional expense. The second goal is to grow the next generation of seminar speakers for PASS Summit (Note: being selected for a PASS SQLRally seminar does not imply or guarantee acceptance as a seminar speaker at PASS Summit).

Qualifications
Presenters must meet the following requirements to be considered:

• Have not been selected to present a pre/post seminar at PASS Summit 2010
• Not a current member of the PASS Board of Directors or the planning team for PASS SQLRally
• Be available to present the seminar on May 11, 2011
• Be available to attend the entire conference May 12-13, 2011 and deliver an additional one hour presentation (subject to session acceptance)
• Meet at least one of the following:
• Be a current SQL Server MVP
• Have been selected as a primary or alternate speaker at the 2009 or 2010 PASS Summit or similar sized event
• Have previously taught a full day course on SQL Server
• Submit a complete application prior to the deadline: midnight on October 15, 2010 (PST)
• Agree to the confidentiality provisions of the application