My former neighbor when I lived in the eastern part of Memphis 25+ years ago had competed for over 30 years. I am pretty sure last year was going to be the last time he participated. I participated with his team once. I was probably at the event 2-3 other times on the party night leading up to the Saturday cook. It was great if you knew people to let you into their booth (or houselike structure some of the corporate sponsors built).
I don't have any interest in crowds that large anymore, and by that time it is too hot there for me.
Let us know if you go. I would be interested in your thoughts on it since its been so long since I have been at the event.