I tend to get bitter and twisted when I don't do well in a comp. That's me though, I dont play well with others when the red flag drops.
It doesnt help when you are passionate about the photo you have entered.
There has been a lot of good feedback in the thread and Steve said be dispassionate with the photos you've entered and I understand why you say that, as well as send in one's that are popular, not necessarily ones you like.
But I think that is what is potentially right and wrong with comps too, is that they can be swayed one way or the other based on personal preferrences not what is say technically a good shot.
Perhaps on the other hand, judges should be less passionate about what they like and more on what is technically correct and then add in the wow factor. I dont know how that sounds but as an example, I start my voting based on how the entered photo relates to the comp title and then on the details of the photo and finally whether it really wows me.
That will rule out some greats photos that i dont feel are properly related to the comp.
Anyway, I think the comps here are run very well and often i see some stunning photos and think - dont bother they deserve to win and normally do.
I think along with good CC and education, you will become a good tog, great ones have the creative eye and inspiration that i will never have. It is a hobby for me and if i do well and have a couple of good photos here and there I am happy, to win a comp is a bonus.