ok -- well lots of varying opinions on this topic. I think, because I have no doubt my quilt will not be accepted into the show, I will go ahead and wash it and block it as described.
Reason I say this is that I'm a new quilter and don't have a lot of FMQ experience but I thought I'd make a quilt as 'perfectly' as I can. At least I can learn from the process of planning, organizing, cutting, sewing, quilting, finishiing, and filling out the application, submitting application, with pics etc.
Worst they can say is no. Right?