Many sanctioned events are run every year for just this reason... to let inexperienced individuals take a shot at flying an RC craft. The stipulation that there be no more than one flight like this in a lifetime for the non-AMA member applies.

Just my opinion, but the one flight rule should be dropped. It might encourage more people to learn to fly and, ultimately, more to join the AMA. In any case, the individual learns about frequency control and other safety considerations, and it makes everything safer for all of us... AMA member or not. If anyone agrees, contact your VP, the President, and/or the ED.

It might even stop the decline in AMA membership.