Good stuff. Thanks for putting these together.
I also agree with finals being a great event to attend. I get that "back in the day" people were secretive and getting a demo was next to impossible. But it's not like that anymore (and hasn't been since I've been competing at Finals in 2010). Nearly all competitors are more than willing to demo their vehicles as long as they're not waiting for a judge or no one near them is being judged at the moment (some of these cars get LOUD and they don't want to mess anyone else up who might be getting judged). The key, like Nick said, is to ask. Walk up, introduce yourself and ask for a demo. And don't be afraid to ask for introductions. A lot of us know each other in the comp scene and can help you out if you want to track someone down. For example, if you know me and you want me to introduce you to someone else, just ask. Oh, and always try to bring some music of your own to demo because it's hard to guess what others might want to hear or be familiar with. Or at least have some songs that you want to hear and we most of us can stream it off Tidal, Apple Music, Amazon HD, etc.