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With competition comes many things other than the "$6 trophy." The competition in and of itslef can help reward (without promise of such) the hobbyist for many things including their ability to pick out a worthy koi and or their husbandry skills raising such. The competition or display can also help to refine the hobbyists eye when they have the oportunity to make the comparisons that can only be made "live" (verses through pictures). Then their is the sharing of knowledge and camaraderie that takes place during the show with others as well. All of these are the true benefits of the show/competition, that and the exposure to the public that comes with it....not the $6 trophy (or other "prize").
Steve