Fortunately, I was not at this contest and I hate it for you guys that are owed a check.
KCBS should have to indemnify themselves if they are sanctioning an event. They should have to buy a bond that covers the announced prize structure and when someone doesn't pay like this knucklehead then KCBS should have to pay through the bond. Once that happens a few times KCBS will start looking a little closer at who and what contests they sanction.
KCBS puts absolutely NO skin in the game, but they are the first ones that want their cut when a contest organizes. I might get a lot of blow back from BOD people and reps on that statement, but they have to show me where it is a false statement. Start bonding contests that you put your name on KCBS! It is that simple!