OK, here's a thought.........
Current Rule:
6. Builder of Model: The CD shall make every reasonable effort to assure himself that each flier has completely “constructed‟ the model(s) he/ uses in competition, including the covering where used, with “constructed” to be interpreted as the action required to complete a model starting with no more prefabrication than the amount used in the average kit. Models which are completely prefabricated and require only a few minutes of unskilled effort for their completion shall be excluded from competition. In the case of rubber-powered models (excluding Indoor duration models), commercially available balsa, plastic, and hardwood propellers may be used. Materials and design may be obtained from any source, including kits. The builder-of-the-model rule applies to every AMA event unless specifically noted otherwise in the rules governing that event.
Now, for CLPA, how about the following:
New Rule:
6. Builder of Model: Pertaining to the Age Group Classes, J/S/O, of AMA competition in Control Line Stunt (CLPA), the "competitor" shall make every reasonable effort to assure himself that he/she has completely “constructed‟ the model(s) he/she uses in competition, including the covering where used, with “constructed” to be interpreted as the action required to complete a model to flying stage. The final "finish" must be applied by the competitor whether it be "paint" materials or any other "covering" such as "iron ons". No items used in construction will be allowed which have a final "finish" (which is the basis for Appearance Points being awarded) already applied when obtained for construction of the model(s). Any components which are in a "raw", unfinished state are allowed. An example would be a pre-sheeted foam core wing where the balsa sheeting has no materials applied to the exterior of the sheeting.
Models which are completely prefabricated and require only a minimum of unskilled effort for their completion shall be excluded from competition. Materials and design may be obtained from any source, including kits. The builder-of-the-model rule applies to every AMA Age Group event in the Control Line "Stunt" (CLPA) classifications.
The CD/ED of any contest outside of the NATS in the Age Group classes may use this rule to ascertain whether or not Appearance Points can be awarded to models submitted by each competitor as deemed by the Builder of the Model rule, if applied. Such rules must be announced in all communications for the contest if the BOM is instituted, and AP will be awarded.
The entering of a model under this rule, by the competitor, is understood to be a statement by the competitor that the model meets the standards for the Builder of the Model Rule.
The "target group" is the people who will enter the NATS in the age group classes, mainly because that is where the rule is really brought into play. Added is the statement that the CD/ED can use the rule if they wish to apply the BOM in local contests where Skill Classes, commonly referred to as PAMPA classes, are generally used.
Gone is the reference to "average kit", which is too difficult to define, IMHO. The pilot now simply states that he is the BOM, just like the statement that is signed at the NATS. If that isn't good enough, then we don't have the quality people which we believe we have participating in this event. Many have strongly advanced the premise that the character of the competitors involved is basically beyond reproach, so this writing would leave the "burden of proof" on the competitor's character. Nothing is left ambiguous, at least as far as I see it, and nothing is really left for argument.
Do I see the possibility of "cheating"? Sure, but it can happen regardless of how any rule is written, and I believe that it is not now, nor will it be, as rampant as some would suggest. It does disallow the "pre-builts" and ARF's, at least in theory. A competitor knows what he/she has and if he/she feels strongly enough that he/she must cheat then it is on that person. Having a bought, built, and finished model, or an ARF, does not guarantee anyone being even competitive as we all well know.
Big Bear