Running adventures where a "Competiton is part of it?

[wolverine]

When you run adventures where there is a competition that is a big part of the thrust of the adventure (or gaming module), do you always plan it out that the group is to win it? Or does that depend on how well they roll off against the NPC(s) who are opposing them?

[Lucas Carr]

I do not let the PCs win automatically. They win if they win. If not, so be it.

[Sarge]

Players being players, I count on them to find ways to tilt the odds in their own favor. I give them opportunities to win, but if they don't take advantage of them and if the dice are adamant that they lose, then they lose. Which often leads to new adventure hooks.