In my opinion, I think that if you are large enough to warrant a free trip, you shouldn’t ask/beg for one since you can afford it.
What if a large affiliate program has 300 affiliates who “deserve” a free pass? You really think they are going to see a great return on an investment that size? If you give it to one affiliate, you have to give it to all who are on that level.
Although I appreciate what you are doing Marc, I do not think you have the position to push affiliates to beg their AM’s to fill your convention. It is obvious you are in need of attendees, but do not put it on the affiliate programs, do it yourself. Just my opinion.
With that said, I look forward to seeing everyone there!