I'm more worried that the ale guidelines top out at 16.5°P. That cuts out a huge number of beers, especially in Cat 23.
I wouldn't worry about that, it's always been on the rules, but has never applied before (going by the winners). This year Barleywine&Old Ale, last year Double IPA, another Old Ale 3 years ago. The winning ales have all been 9-10% ABV
they do list a higher OG for lagers, but it's still below the Weizenbocks and Trad. Bocks that have won in the past