REVISIONS FOR 2008--COMPETITION CLASSES:

1. Advanced:  This category is available for top-level pilots using aircraft that are not governed by the Builder of Model (BOM) rule.  This includes purchased, modeler-built, or factory-built scale models including ARF/ARC (almost ready to fly/cover).  Judging criteria for both flying and static are identical to Expert and Team Scale events as described in this Competition Guide.  Any model used for competition in this category shall not be a past winner in the top ten places of Expert or the top five places of Team Scale at the US Scale Masters Championships.  Those competing in Advanced may not compete in Expert at the same contest. However those competing in Advanced may also enter as either the builder or pilot in one Team class.   Contestants who place in the top 20% of the class at a regional qualifier shall be qualified for entry in the Advanced Class at the Championships. 
2. Open: This category is available only at regional qualifiers as an entry-level class for new and developing scale competitors. Contestants may enter the Open category provided they have not previously competed in Expert, Team Scale, or Advanced. This category does not enforce the Builder of Model (BOM) rule and includes purchased, modeler-built or factory-built scale models including ARF/ARC (almost ready to fly/cover). Contestants who have previously competed in Team scale as a builder may compete in Open as a pilot. Static points will be awarded based on documentation provided. Outline will be worth up to 10 points based on 3 to 5 view drawings that have been published or approved. Color and Markings will be worth up to 10 points and require published drawings, color chips and/or artist’s renditions. Craftsmanship will be worth up to 10 points based on accuracy of construction and extent of detail. All static judging downgrades will be in full-point increments.   Flight scoring is identical to Expert, Team, and Advanced Classes. Contestants who place in the top position two years in a row at any regional qualifier in the Open Class must be moved to the Advanced Class described above.  Any model used for competition in this category shall not be a past winner in the top ten places of Expert or the top five places of Team Scale at the US Scale Masters Championships.     

1.       2008 USSMA Competition Guide <Click Here

2.       Current Newsletter <Click Here

3.       2007 USSMA Competition Guide <Click Here

4.       Documentation Help   by Art Newland; Camas, WA