The 13th Annual Sproo-Doo uses the Open System of Judging

CASM uses the Open System of judging in their model contests.  This means we judge every model that is entered and awards medals based on the merit of the individual build.  In this way novice, intermediate, and master level modelers all receive an award based on the quality of their build.  The awards are Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals pictured above.  If you are new to modeling; just recently joined a model club; enjoy modeling and wonder how “good” your model is; or are learning the “art of modeling” this is the contest for you because you will receive an honest appraisal of your modeling skills and receive an award based on that appraisal.  Not everybody scores high enough to earn a medal but most do.  If you are a modeler who wants to know if you are the best of the best we have a category for you.  In most of the model categories we have a “best of” award that pits all of the Gold Medal winners against one another and the one we consider to be the best receives the “Best of” award for that category.  The picture below shows a sample of those awards from 2009. 

We have other specialized awards as well.  The picture below shows the specialized award trophies awarded at the 2009 Sproo-Doo.

So, if you have hesitated attending other contests in the past because you did not think your modeling skills were good enough to place first, second, or third then this is the contest for you because you stand a strong chance of receiving a Gold, Silver, or Bronze medal.  Examine the description of the medal classes below.

Bronze Medal: The Bronze Medal reflects the modeler’s avoidance of any significant errors on the model.  The model has no glaring flaws in finish or construction as seen from a casual viewing distance (about three feet).  Basic craftsmanship is good, but realism or attention to details may be lacking.  In general, the model demonstrates the modeler’s grasp of the basics: seams are taken care of; model is well aligned; paint work is good but not perfect; decals are good but not perfect; and weathering may be less than well-rendered.

Silver Medal:  The Silver Medal Reflects a model exhibiting very few minor errors in construction and a better grasp of finishing techniques.  The model has a higher level of craftsmanship in all areas: very few flaws; finishes are realistic; basic techniques have been used to improve appearance (exposed edges are realistically thinned, gun barrels or exhaust stacks are drilled out, etc.).  The Silver medal is awarded to those models that demonstrate the modeler has mastered the basics but also has a command of more advanced techniques as well.

Gold Medal:  The Gold Medal represents an exceptional level of craftsmanship with practically no flaws or omissions of basic techniques; a near perfect finish; and exhibits the use of “best practices” for assembly and finish.  A Gold Medal model is close to perfect but a small error will not eliminate a model from a Gold Medal.

CASM encourages modelers of all skill levels to come to our contest to receive an honest appraisal of their work and receive an award consistent with their modeling abilities.  If you are one of those people who are just learning and do not think your model is “good” enough for you to enter a contest, then this is the contest for you.  If you are a modeler who wants to prove you are the best, then this is the contest for you.  If you just want to display your model, let the chips fall where they do, and just gather and talk with fellow modelers, this contest is for you.  If you enjoy talking with fellow modelers and want to learn and see how others do their craft then come to the 13th Annual Sproo-Doo contest on September 21st.