The problem (which can not be fixed in my humble opinion) is the word average. What I consider average is going to be totaly different than what others might think is average. The Human factor can not be avoided.
I loved the idea of comments on the judging card. I also thought that they should also state if the judge was CBJ or not. However, a good friend of mine came back from a contest that used the comment cards and showed it to me. The comment was "best rib I ever tasted" However, under taste his scores were 7,6,7,7,5,7. Now if you heard that it was the best ever, wouldn't you think there would be a 9 on that card. It kind of sends a mix message, which for me as a cook would make me even madder.
I think we know going in that judging is a perception. Will I stop cooking because of it (like the many others I know who have), no. I just keep having a good time.
I want to thank the people on BOD, this discussion board, cooks, judges, contest reps, organizers and all volunteers at contest. If it was not for them, I would not have met such wonderful people.