Did you read the article? It largely describes how he went from a small hackathon to a large hackathon to a YC hackathon to being accepted to YC.

Three distinct "hacks" in a row. Do you object to the word "hack" being used to describe the work that occurs at a hackathon, or are you just being argumentative because you prefer a different meaning?

I'm with the original commentary here. Cool -- he upgraded hackathons. I don't see how that in of itself is "hacking" the system. He didn't break ground or do anything crazy. I think people are starting to apply this term too liberally, though I'll admit the complaints (mine included) aren't going to help.

It's almost like one word can have multiple meanings.

would be interested in hearing your take on the word "hack"!

Maybe he's attempting to say that going through all of those hackathons was like using a machete to traverse a dense jungle... ;-)

Author here! I take it to mean using whatever resources you have available to make something work. And that's what I think I did.

Of course you're free to disagree!