The first international show I entered was juried. Just getting accepted was enough for me. Imagine my shock when I won Best of Show! I think competing is great if you go into it with the attitude that all you want is the experience of having your work on display, and getting professional feedback. And, who knows, you might win!
In my case I had been working away for twenty years on my technique so would have been considered an advanced quilter going in. I wasn't active in the quilting community so hadn't even thought about entering a show until someone dared me. It was great affirmation that I was heading in the right direction.
I actually framed Karey Bresehan's judge's notes and have them hanging in my studio 20 years later. It inspires me!