MSN’s Search Weblog is putting out an “open call” to anyone who would like to get along to Redmond, Washington state, and poke around in the workings of Microsoft’s search engine.

In the past, visits were strictly by invitaion only, and usually restricted to geeky types who would have a good understanding of search technology. With that deft PR touch that MS always shows, visitors were labelled “Search Champs” ~ even when they were nothing of the sort. Now, you can apply for Champ status without a by-your-leave.

Brady Forrest of the MSN Search Team puts it this way : “The event will take place in Redmond (on the MS campus) from 1/24-1/26 and expenses will be paid by us. Champs will be selected based on who applies and what products we are reviewing. Hope to meet you!” Get an application form.

I hope there’s plenty of CHAMPagne and CHAMPignons.