As I was looking through the modeling awards from IPMS (I think), I noticed that one medal was given to a 12 year old for his A6M2 Zero. Really incredible, especially considering his young age. Are there any more photo galleries of models built by kids/teens? Do model competitions generally have categories for young competitors?
Props to Seth!
Our local club just held our annual model show and competition in Pensacola (29 May) and as usual, we had numerous categories in the youth area (16 and under). Unfortunately, out of 12 youth modeling categories, we had a total of 5 models entered in the competition this year. If I remember correctly, we only had about 7 or 8 at last year’s show.
Unfortunately, there continues to be a declining trend in youth participation in our events. One of the problems this year may have been the Memorial Day weekend scheduling. Our club is already planning of changing this next year in an effort to draw more participation on a weekend less likely to involve wide-spread family trips or activities.
On a positive note, I had the opportunity to spent a good 30 or 45 minutes discussing armor modeling techniques with a 14 year old young man who entered two of his builds in the competition. His models were very well done and far exceeded the talent (or lack there of) that I had at his age. It was extremely enjoyable to see someone of his age not only enjoying modeling as much as I do, but also seeking out information on how to improve his abilities. I know that he will be back next year and all of us “old farts” better start improving as well or he will leave us in the dust.
all the model expo’s i’ve been trading at recently have catorgries for all ages, the Brisbane expo I was at last year a 10 y.o. girl got a bronze medal for a her Williams F1 model car.
Rob.
I know at Tamiya Con there were Categories geared for younsgters and I was quite impressed with their quality…especially compared to my model…kinda embarassed me…lol
If they do not exist create them…Lot of kids will be thanking you…
It is a safe hobby with lot to offer from skills to history understanding…
I am not in it, but my local IMPS has competitions with under 17 catagories. So does my local Hobbytown.
In the hobbytownusa competition I have to register as a junior, but that will change in a couple years![:-,] I’ll try to get some of my pics up…