I didn't know about the bronze medals during my first regional last year. I remember how I felt when we packed up the pit after we were elimanted. It was probably the best feeling I've ever had. When I heard about the participation medal I considered asking my coach if we had any left, but I was weary about it because I didn't feel it carried much weight.
Now I look at the gold and silver medal I have from the season this year. They make me feel gratified, like I accomplished something. The pit crew button I have on them reminds me I worked hard to get them. I look at the pin the whole team got for having plenty of safety tokens, again I know I worked for it.
I do not feel that I needed that bronze medal from last year, and know that I didn't lose anything from not getting it. My team and I earned these awards and I am proud to have them. I do not like the idea of participation medals, I have gotten 6 participation trophies in bowling yet they don't mean anything to me while I can look at the trophy I got from winning the 2007 season and feel proud of myself and my teammates. Like
Mr. Lim said I for one wouldn't bat an eyelash if these medals were to disappear next year. Am I wrong for thinking only winners should get awards? I hope none of you will look negatively upon me or my team for having an opinion.