If it makes you feel any better, I managed to swing the VII +++ but it looks like the FF12 one is off the table for me. I just can't bring those snowflakes down fast enough, and at 40 stam/attempt, you have to cut your losses sooner or later.
I've been taking the tactic of choosing one or two favorites out of each event and focusing on leveling those guys. If I can get one guy to 50 or close, he can be pretty handy with synergy in most fights.