I never entered because I don't make quilts for show. But I do love to look at the displays at quilt shows. But I did laugh at one that won a ribbon because it was a kit. (I had the same kit at home.) So my sister said to one of the docents she didn't know they would accept kits made from kits, and the reply was, "We don't!" Okay - we walked away and didn't point it out.
Some of the hand quilters I would love to sit with for instruction. When I took classes It was always hand held and not on a frame/hoop and the instructors would ask me why I was there. Because I can't get that perfect 10 stitches to an inch on my hoop.