I think you guys also forget that Ken has an advantage because of his experience in Quiz Bowls and College Bowl. You really can learn a lot from taking part in those tournaments and events. Also, who's to say there is a definite advantage?
Eddie Timanus couldn't see the lights around the board several years back, and look how well he did on his set of shows. In fact, he couldn't see the values of what was on the board most of the time; hence why he said, "Next one, please" many times in his five-day run.
All it takes is practice, practice, practice...and a lot of smarts.
Makes me wish I could have played more games at the GSC, but feh. =D I'm an idiot anyway...