"Original"

In my opinion, the main goal of the tournament is not to ensure balance, but to minimize modifications to the game for the tournament, so that, again, all these TE and IRMG things don't scare away the average players. Although, it seems that the fears are justified:

Well, in general, if none of the "best of the best" are going to sign up, then I'll play.

Personally, I don't care at all; I would gladly play on TE, but I just wanted to attract other enthusiasts who rarely play in tournaments.

A standard GSC will easily generate sand for humans and snow for mages.

I have never had this happen. Even if it does, you can regenerate it.