Yes that is the irony.
I, myself think of NANY from January but do not start coding till October / November, in fear I may release it and it may become invalid for NANY.
It is true NANY should be for new apps, in fact most forums and websites gives special mention to NANY. But we should also make another, like mouser suggested "See Also", to add those released in that year.
This way programmer like me, may start earlier and save some of their hairs. But they must make one 'unpublished' app at the end of the year.
Well those are my points, others may have better suggestions.
Regards,
Anand