Yep, I like it Q!!  I think you've hit on a very nice compromise here.  So, let me understand Q.  If a builder takes 2nd in say armour,  and aslo a 3rd in say aircraft, he/she will be awarded a prize (assuming there are some in 2012) for the armour placing but not for the aircraft placing?  So then, bottom line, even though he/she is announced and treated as the 3rd place winner in AC, the 4th place entry would get the 3rd place prize.  It's not nearly as complicated as I make it sound here and a great suggestion Q!!  I think that is a fair solution for all.

  Given that you are a very reasonable and congenial person Q, what do you think about the "minimum post count" or "minimum time in forum" idea??  Also, how do you feel about professionals (anyone who is paid for model building) taking part in the contest?