I don’t know how they’re judging but it seems it would be simple enough to have different levels of competition, ie beginners, experienced, advanced and masters.
Who would want to be judged “best” if they knew they were only awarded that title because the BEST stepped aside?
The lady to his right would “benefit” but the idea of competition and excellence would lose.
In this world of PC - you make too much sense;)
Hard to believe this is the country that devised Red, White and Blue Ribbon - Dog & Pony Shows.