I would never enter any kind of a music contest unless I was absolutely confident I could finish within the top 3 (i.e. Winfield). Otherwise it would be an exercise in embarrassment, frustration and getting down on one's abilities. I think that even if I was good enough, I still wouldn't do it. Rick's words : If yer good, ya know it...if yer not ya should know it are spot on. Be comfortable with yourself and your abilities and enjoy what you do.

Accept the fact that no matter how good you think you are or might be, there's some 13 year old Lenny Breau clone out there somewhere, who can pick circles around you. If your ego can't handle that, then perform only around people who will never achieve your current level of ability. This way you can be a legend in your own mind. :-)