BK 2002. We came back from a very disappointing 2001 season with a much better show, and made it into finals at the major regionals. Magic made finals at the show that counted, though. DCI has since changed that rule, thank goodness..... too little too late for BK 2002, though.
I was completely stunned when we didn't make finals. Never even saw it coming.
So yeah, I've been there. It sucks, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone.