We’ve answered common questions about the Brick Train Awards below.
Please read these carefully. Answers to most queries we have about the awards are answered on this page. If you still have queries about the awards, please contact bricktrainawards@gmail.com. Due to timezone differences, it may take several days for us to respond, so please be patient.
Entering the awards
Entries for the Brick Train Awards 2023 will be open from 1st September – 30th September 2023.
Other questions for entrants
Can I enter someone else’s design?
No, only the original builder can enter models in to the awards. Models entered must be designed by you.
Can I enter using an alias or pseudonym?
Yes, we accept entries with pseudonyms, so you do not have to use your real name to enter. If you win an award, we will need your real name to ship prizes.
Are modified LEGO® bricks permitted in models?
Models must be built from LEGO® elements, although we permit LEGO® elements which have been cut or modified. We also accept the use of third party and after market systems such as:
- TrainedBrick, Breckland Bricks and other custom rod systems
- Big Ben Brick and other custom wheels
- S-Brick and other alternative power systems
- Custom lighting systems
- Third party track such as BrickTracks and TrixBrix
- Custom printing, decals and lining
Third party elements are permitted if the element does not exist within LEGO. Please make it clear in your submission that your model contains non-LEGO elements which are not listed above.
Do locomotive and wagons have to run on standard LEGO® tracks?
Yes, models in most locomotive and all wagon categories must run on standard LEGO® gauge tracks. This does not mean they have to run around a standard 40-stud radius corner or point / switches – we also accept models which will only run on larger radius tracks (e.g., r56, r72, r88, r104, r120, grand curves, etc).
Any locomotive which does not run on standard LEGO® gauge tracks can be entered in the Best Other LEGO® Locomotive category.
Are there terms and conditions to enter the awards?
Yes, there are terms and conditions for entrants. Please read this page.
Can I enter digital models?
Yes! We welcome digital models. For 2022, we have new categories for digital only models. See the categories page.
Do locomotive and wagon models have to be based on real-life prototypes?
No, models do not have to be based on real-life prototypes. You can submit locomotive and wagon models based on fantasy and fiction series, as well as imagination-based models.
Is this a for-profit event?
No, the Brick Train Awards are a non-profit event. Our sponsors cover the cost of the prizes and shipping them to winners, and the winner bricks. Judges may receive a gift from sponsors to thank them for their time and contributions, but are not paid to take part in the event.
I’d like to enter, but my region doesn’t have a judging panel. Can I take part?
If you can’t see your region covered, please email bricktrainawards@gmail.com and we will assign you to a region for judging.
FAQs about the awards
Do you have instructions for…?
No. Sorry, most models entered don’t have instructions created for them. Brick Train Awards will not share builder’s contact details; you may be able to contact them via Instagram or Flickr.
Can you send me contact details for….?
No, sorry – we can’t share entrant’s contact details. See answer above.