Hi Tom
'Nationals', the knock-out match-play format event for the top 16 finishers on the BDGA Tour, is the only competition of the season that needs pre-qualification. However, as running a tournament for just 16 players would be pretty extravagant, there has always been a 'Not the Nationals' side event for anyone else to play in.
The format of NtN is always a little fluid as it depends on how many players turn up, but it's always a great event to be at and there is the added fun of the BDGA Annual Dinner & Awards on the Saturday night.
Really hope you can make it.