I used to show livestock and I had champion stock. But at this one show I kept getting put at the end of the line- last! Months later I was visiting with the judge of that show and he made the comment "I didn't know who you were" Thats why he put my animal down- He didn't know who I was!!!!! That should not have made any difference.
I don't know how quilt shows go but I do know there is a lot of politics involved it most types of shows.
Sorry for your experience. Smile and keep trying! You're good.