We have had this discussion in the Mopar club that I've belonged to for about 20 years. I think that it all depends on how the judging is done. If club members do the choosing then I think definitely they shouldn't be up for trophies. Several Mopar shows I go to have a separate class or classes for club member cars and they are usually voted on by the others attending the show. Some clubs have invited knowledgeable outside judges and then I think it's OK for club member cars to compete.
Our club made a big switch several years ago and we ask for volunteers from the registered cars who are not club members and give each small group a few classes to judge (not any that contain their cars). Since club members don't choose, club members are eligible for class awards. Best of (show, paint, engine, interior) are selected by our club and never go to club members. People's choice is selected by ballots of all registered cars.
I'll be interested to see others' opinions as our club discusses this every year!
