Desert Classic VII held in Lancaster, Ca on November 1.
The Antelope Valley Group chapter of IPMS hosted the Desert Classic VII Model contest held in Lancaster, California on November 1, 2003. A flyer was provided on their website with the contest location, list of categories and fees. There was no registration form online.
The contest was located at the Antelope Valley College cafeteria. No food was provided, however being a cafeteria many vending machines were available. There was plenty of parking (free) and several restaurants are located in the area. Both vendors and models were in the same area. There were only a handful of vendors, but being a local contest this is understandable.
The entry fee was $10.00 for unlimited entries. This fee will work fine for the person entering several models, but if you have only one model to show I think this cost is too high. Both spectators and juniors were free. The registration paperwork was well thought out and quick. No personal information was displayed with the models (never a good idea!!!).
Raffle tickets were sold at $1.00 or 6 for $5.00. There were few items on the table but again being a local contest understandable. There were no set times as to when the raffle was to be held – very spasmodic at best. The winners had the choice of picking their winning items, something I think all clubs should do. The caller had a child helping her and both did a great job.
The display area was large; the aisles were wide and offered plenty of room to move about. More than enough tables were provided for all entries, however they were very low. There were many windows providing a large amount of light. Judging was relatively quick and smooth and volunteers were used. 1st, 2nd and 3rd awards were placed beside the winning models, with the first place and special award winners announced over the PA system. This IPMS chapter has, in my opinion, some of the best looking awards plaques, this year was no exception. They were tinted green clear plastic with etched club name, category and date. The largest were for 1st place and “best of” awards.
Many clubs attended this event, which is great. But there was some questions and comments from some of these members (I won’t name the club but the state of Nevada comes to mind) as to why a certain model won in a certain category. And they were not quiet in stating their views. Guys, this contest should be a fun event and the judge’s choices are final. If there is a problem the discussion should be in private, not in earshot of fellow members/contestants or spectators. I heard this over several different models, a couple being mine. I was not amused!!
With the exception of the above this was a very good contest. This is one that I will attend next year!!