In order to promote fair play and sportsmanship among competitors, Revelation Racing would like to recognize WIGTP pullers who exhibit those qualities. While no one plans on getting last place, we believe the goal of having fun in the sport regardless of winning is an honorable goal. So instead of awarding those who have won, for they have already received their trophy or payback, we will be honoring those who are leaders in maturity and positive attitude.
The criteria for receiving the Sportsman Award consist of the following six items:
1. Not a WIGTP rules referee. While some refs are indeed great sports, we feel that holding a referee position requires that kind of attitude anyway and no special award should be needed for them to do their job.
2. Attends more than half of pulls held. It is a challenge to keep up a positive attitude in the face of adversity. It's easier to quit or accuse someone of cheating than to knuckle down and try and figure out how to do better. Those who keep trying have the right stuff.
3. No more than one win per weight class. It's easy to be positive when you're winning. It's a lot tougher when you're so close you can taste it. To resist the temptations to cheat just to beat that guy ahead of you takes patience and a positive attitude. While there are many winners who are good sports, they have already received their reward. This award is for those who are still trying and have not compromised sportsmanship principles in that effort.
4. Has not caused referees concern. The refs can see behavior that falls into that gray area of rule interpretation. Some pullers find themselves on the radar of referee scrutiny and discussion. And others, even though they may be very competitive, never cause any suspicion. A good sport can compete without causing problems.
5. Has not raised puller suspicion. The pullers can see behavior that falls into that gray area of rule interpretation. Some pullers find themselves on the radar of gossip and suspicion. And others, even though they may be very competitive, never raise any eyebrows. A good sport can compete without causing problems.
6. Exhibits self control. Displays of temper from two year olds are to be expected, but since two year olds aren't allowed to pull, it is uncalled for in this sport. Someone who can maintain their composure regardless of their competitors real or imagined cheating has the right stuff.
There you have it, what we consider to be the qualities of a Sportsman. Any WIGTP puller meeting these criteria is a candidate for this award. At the annual WIGTP meeting we will award two fortunate pullers a Sportsman Award plaque and $50.00 cash, each. We all like to win, but if that is the only thing you care about, you're missing out on a lot. We hope this award will show our gratitude for all those pullers who truly are "Sportsmen".
And while we're sharing our opinion on matters, we might as well address the topic of cheating. Is there anything in the good book about winning a competition? Yes, from Paul's second letter to Timothy, chapter 2 verse 5, "Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules."
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