Page 19 - March April 2015

of a model at a time. This ensures, for example, that the quality of paint finish is assessed separately from the quality of construction and so on.
Each model is assessed and awarded points using this same set of criteria; the maximum possible score is 125 points. To achieve a “Merit Award” towards the AP, a model must score at least 87.5 points, which is 70% of the 125 points available. The points are awarded in various judged elements as follows:
Construction Detail Conformity Finish Scratchbuilding Total
40 points 20 points 25 points 25 points 15 points 125 points
So what do you think the judges are likely to look for in the various categories? Let’s go through them in order and try to get an overview.
To help the judges, the NMRA has produced the scoring matrix suggesting how points should be awarded for combinations of complexity and quality of work. A matrix of this type is avail- able for each of the criteria. It is worth reading and digesting this document before you submit an entry, as it will help you when you come to explain your modelling efforts. Construction: The judges are trying to answer the following sorts of question:
“Is the model put together well?”
“Is it square?”
“Are the joins neat with no excess glue or solder?”
“Have appropriate materials been used?”
Other considerations will be how complex the model is and how difficult it was to build. This is where your documentation comes to the fore!
On the entry form you will hopefully have ticked the respective boxes showing what materials and processes you have undertaken. In addition it is helpful to describe how your model was made; such as, did you cut sheet or use strip styrene? If the roof is removable, did you construct the internal timbers that support it? Explain all that you did. Use an additional sheet if you need more space than is on the form. If you did something that proved very difficult, but isn’t obvious, be sure to mention it so you get the credit. Equally if you have omitted something for a particular reason, which may be spotted by the judges, say why it is not included. Every bit of information is relevant and helpful, but be careful not to overdo the explanations. If you used magazine plans, or drew your own plans, include a photocopy of these as well as any photos you have. If you have some showing each stage of construction, that is even better!.
Detail: what the judges are looking for here is only the quantity of detail added to the model. Be sure to include a comprehensive list of the parts added or show the parts sheet included with your model by the manufacturer. If need be, for clarity, include a simple hand drawing with arrows to show where parts were added.
Conformity: In this category the question the Judges are asking is, “How close is the model to the real thing?”
The judges are interested in prototypical accuracy. They will note the obvious missing items or technically incorrect features – some models are often submitted without the underside brake gear, which is an obvious omission. The judges can’t possibly know every detail about every prototype, so it is important to include information with your documents to help them give you full credit for this conformity element. It isn’t possible to over-emphasise the importance of good information covering this area; without it, the judges are unable to assess conformity and will be forced to award a lower score. It doesn’t have to be a huge amount so long as it allows the accuracy of the model to be assessed.
A couple of good, clear photos of the prototype, or a plan of the prototype, will really help.
However, it is also important to stress again that the amount provided is sensible and helpful. To decide what to include, put yourself in the judges’ shoes and ask, “What would be helpful?” (Of course the other big consideration is, “What would gain me extra points?”)
“Freelanced” models can present a problem. By definition there can’t be prototype photos or plans; however, freelanced models are usually based on one or more real vehicles or structures. Photos and drawings of these will demonstrate that you have followed prototype practice and that your model is logical.
NB – again it is also worth noting that if for any reason you have elected to omit some part or piece of equipment, the reasons for this should be explained in your descriptions or additional notes.
Finish: Here the judges are looking at painting, lettering and weathering.
Note that models are not penalised if they are not weathered. Remember, though, that if they are “ex-works” in respect of rolling stock or a newly-built structure, they do need to be pristine. Once again the complexity of the work comes into the picture. Clearly a well-done, complex, multi-coloured model should score more points than an equally well-done plain black model.
Incidentally, models will not be penalised for the quality of purchased decals. Marks can be lost, though, if they are poorly applied. There is nothing worse than seeing the “silvering” behind the decal, where the film is still visible.
In most cases a simple description of what you did and the materials used will suffice. If you did something unusual, like hand lettering or producing your own artwork for decals, be sure to draw attention to it.
Scratchbuilding: here, a list of scratchbuilt parts is more than adequate.
Points will be awarded for how much of the model is scratchbuilt and how difficult it was to make the scratchbuilt items. If you have made moulds or other kinds of masters, do try and enclose these in your submission. It is best to read the Judges’ Scoring Matrix to see the level of points that can be awarded for the actual work completed in this category.
One sensible piece of advice worth noting was overheard at a National Contest, when the person said that “if the modeller had jotted down a few notes or perhaps taken a photo at each stage when building his model, it would have made his form filling much easier!” A good suggestion, I am sure, and one I will certainly follow in future.
Entering the Contest
The Contest Chairman will announce in ‘Roundhouse’ when Contests will be held; these days it is normally at the Region Convention. He will give the dates and how to obtain entry forms. For each model you enter you will need to complete the two entry forms. On the first (form 901, “Contest Entry Form”) you give your name, a one-line description of your model and your valuation of your model for insurance purposes. As it includes your name, please note that the judges will never see this form as all judging is anonymous. The form is only used by the Contest Chairman to keep track of the models. You can also include any special handling instructions on this sheet too. For example if you write, “if you turn it upside down the roof falls off!” the Contest Chairman will pass these instructions on to the judges or place a notice to that effect by the model prior to judging.
The second form (form #902, “Judges’ Score Sheet”) allows you to describe your model for the judges – since this form #902 is a single sheet, it only allows a few lines for each of the five criteria (construction, conformity etc) but you can include additional sheets as necessary. Use these to give the judges a clear picture of what you have done and to present your model in the best light. Remember that form #902 and any supporting information is the only chance you have to “speak” to the judges when they look at your model. So make sure you get credit for all the work you have done.
apRil 2015 15