I have been a POCI member for the last 20 years or so and have been to a half dozen or more National conventions. There are always some 1st gens there but nothing compared to the GTOs. That is just the way it always has been and will continue to be. I never do the judged part of the show. They have a category called "Road Warriors" that is very relaxed with no stupid display rules.
The national Solstice event "NASSAM" is a much more enjoyable and a lot more fun. It is a driving event not just a five day car show.