You got a good point. I also find it a bit disconcerting a post about a web design change has gotten more comments than your post introducing a new product. Call it fame bias or something. Codeacademy is vastly overrated right now.
I'm not supporting the idea that 'YC alumn eats an apple for lunch' is indeed noteworthy, just providing an explanation.
I used to think HN front page was heavily gamed. That is you had to have a network of insta-voters in order to build up enough momentum. And while that is probably true for some stories, I honestly believe it's just a matter of good timing, luck, and persistence. If you keep having something to say, you'll eventually get lucky with good timing!
