I'm not sure how lengthy they expect. Mine came in around 600 words I think.

I got the impression for this entry it was background for the character that won't be part of the main novel writing. I choose a format that told something about the protagonists life that won't come into the main story line stopping just short of what i plan to include.

Write something that you think will fit the contest piece and put it in. Worst that can happen is you won't win the contest round! I don't expect too but I thoroughly enjoyed coming up with it. And that is what I think the true prize here is. Doing something to help you come up with your character's life story that may lead to new ideas for the main work.

Just my .02 worth.

Thanks!

Rich