It looks like NCR won't be the first to host an Upscale Contest. There was one at NSL in 2009.
http://www.rocketryforum.com/showthread.php?t=338
I have not been able to find any official rules, the official web site is no longer.
My guess is they flew under NAR Pink Book rules for the Upscale - maybe the Giant Sport Scale rules or something similar. I don't think there is a real push to be the first section or club to host a contest but it is the quality of entries and the launch that is the real challenge. NCR's contest is open to all and eventually will get some national publicity. Our new Contest Director has been kept busy but the information has been sent to Rocketry Planet for eventual distribution/broadcast beyond our simple means.