True, many of us have off-topic even ignored. However, newbies don't and some did answer there, I've seen.
So imho OP question is somewhat valid.
I cannot be sure but I think when I discovered the thread it was not in Off Topic, it could have been moved there by a moderator. As I stated, I am not sure but maybe someone will correct me.
It was originally in the main bitcoin discussion sub. Personally, I don't think people should be holding competitions to give away merit. As you've mentioned , it is ripe for abuse and could easily be used to launder merit. Farmers will quickly exploit it and if one person does it even more so will try it.