I agree with Matt here, I think J_R and Gordon are going around in circles a bit here, and agree more than they realize.

Gordon, I *THINK* that having a sanction for a contest held at an AMA field does provide some extra "cover", but if I'm wrong, I'd like to hear about it. Here is what I think:

If there is an accident at a normal flying field, during a normal "non-event" day, the club could be liable. The officers of the club might also be personally liable, espeically if the club isn't incorporated. (not all clubs are incorporated). Since they are "in charge", they are responsible for what goes on. (personally, I wouldn't be a club officer for a club that wasn't incoroporated).

If you're the CD at an event, you're "in charge", sanction or not. If an accident happens, and you're in charge, you could be held personally liable. If you have a sanction, then you're now acting as part of the AMA, not just as an individual, so you're covered as part of the "AMA, Inc.". This is espeically helpful if you're running the event at a club that isn't incorporated. With out the sanction, you're just an individual all by yourself in the middle of a field.

As I understand it, the difference is weither or not they could attach your personal assets if the judgement excedes any insurance that may or may not apply.