GL Ashoka event locking game

Have just completed all requirements for GL Ashoka and trying to start tier 1.  Every time i try to start, it locks the game as “Loading” but never completes.  I must exit game.  I have 106/144 currency so not an issue.  I have restarted router, Ipad, and game 3-4 times with no luck……anyone else having this issue or ideas on how to fix.  Spent months getting here and now can’t even get first shards going.   Thanks…