From Bill's Blog: Merits of replacing bronze participation medals

[David Brinza]

We're drifting off-topic here, but I'll state that I'm not in favor of eliminating the second trophy.

FIRST's intent is for the team to present this trophy to their primary sponsor. If your sponsor is in attendance at the event in which you win an award, that's a good time to present them with the trophy. It's "instant gratification" for their contribution to your team and the program. Alternatively, the team should arrange a presentation with the sponsor (i.e. invite the sponsor to a team banquet, or ask for an invitation for a tour, etc.). Your sponsor deserves (and will certainly appreciate) the award and recognition!

BTW, the incremental cost to FIRST for shipping these trophies to regionals and Championship is very low: they travel in the trucks along with the field.