I agree with you to some extent. This particular incident came about because of a (at the time) popular usenet netkook making wild claims about Randi refusing to test him, and using it as a means of discrediting the entire challenge. I believe that JREF ended up saying that they hadn't followed the proper procedures for submitting a claim and request to compete. (Sorry this was a really long time ago around the time Earl Curley was completely imploding)

As the failure to win the Randi Challenge is thrown around a lot in skeptic circles as de facto proof of the falsity of all manner of woo-woo kookery, it seemed reasonable to attempt to follow their procedures and sponsor someone to be tested.

I understand that it is impossible to accept every attempt at the challenge, but having followed all the rules, I would at least expect a denial and reason for it. Otherwise what is the point of it? All it does is dump fuel on the already out of control fires of paranoid delusional idiots.

I actually tried to help someone file for the JREF challenge years ago because I was sick of all the netkooks claiming the contest was rigged.

JREF never responded to the person. I still have the documents they sent in. I have no doubt they were a kook of the highest order, but it was kind of annoying to get no response at all.

Don't blame the victims, pal.