I couldn't agree more. This was a poorly considered and written rule that was modified by a poorly written and conducted survey then modified by that poor survey.

If you put in a rule that says each pilot shall make sure that the motor to their electric model cannot come on until necessary for their flight, and will be "disarmed" by any appropriate method after the flight, leaving the method that they use up to them, then I'd be OK. Then I suggest add a rule that says any accidental motor operation that causes personal injury or property damage would result in disqualification from the contest, to be determined by the CD.

You have now put the "How" completely in to the hands of the contestant for them to determine if they meet the "What".