We went through this last year with the Mayan calendar. Comet ISON also figured into predictions for this year. I could probably dig into the Bible and make any date I choose seem reasonable. Just keep walking the walk and it doesn’t matter when the road ends.
So why hinder a tradition ?
Besides, as you indicate, one year someone is going to be right.
Winner gets nothing. Matter of fact, they will be nothing. At least nothing material.
BTW, did you know that when you die, you can finally travel faster than the speed of light?
The Secret to FTL travel is no mass.