Have you ever wanted to enter your model trains, layouts or scenery into one of the many contests you have seen at various events? You know you have! And what's stopped you? Never mind that part; let's just get about getting you to enter your specialty in the next contest you go to. After all, this is a big part of why you're doing this, right?

As long as you're going, there are contests to enter. Most conventions and meets have many different types of contests and awards to compete for, and umpteen categories within each of those categories. Some of the main contest categories usually include models, photography, arts & crafts, and special awards. The model category always has several sub-categories, and  the photography contests can get a little more creative, (as you might expect) with categories of different types of trains (steam and non- steam), pictures of models trains, and several artistic categories. The Arts & Crafts category will judge on things like layout items having to do with rail and non-rail, as well as general layout pieces. There are also usually many other special awards given out.

Don't make this another model railroading show you've gone to and not entered any competitions! Get out there and at the very worst, meet some great people and learn something more about your passion!

Let me know of any competitions you've entered and your experiences. I'm always on the lookout for fun meets to attend and interesting people to meet!