I’d go with door number 3 (3: Send a personal statement, with a transcript, and supporting documents). I’d structure what you wrote for this post in a more formal manner so it is easy for the ACT folks to read:
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Conditions of initial testing: blah blah no practice, etc.
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Reasons for choice of test site and timing: Include the fact that closer locations were unavailable, etc.
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Steps taken to improve after 1st test. Mention every book you used and every site you accessed . If you completed tests on line and you can still access the accounts, I’d download (or upload) to send. If you have actual books and have answer sheets, I’d scan to send. In other words, provide every piece of evidence you have that you did, in fact practice. If you used on line resources your accounts would even include dates on which you took practice tests and how you did on them, etc.