[Tom Line]

Yes, they are that strict.

This past weekend at the West Michigan District, the measurers informed us half way through the competition that we were not legal. Our bumper hardware and backing was good, but in the corners where the bumper fabric was folded, it touched their measuring jig (the jig was 2 inches high).

We interpreted the rule differently, in that we believed if a 2 inch jig could easily slide under our bumpers then we were legal. They disagreed, and said our bumpers couldn't touch the top of their 2 inch jig.

A half pound of staples later, out bumpers are aesthetically disgusting, but the fabric no longer brushed the 2 inch jig.

Live and learn.