As a judge, I was having similar thoughts concerning the "awesome" theme. While writing my review, first I try to think why the maps could be considered "awesome" and then proceed to write what I think about them in general. The category can be adjusted in a very broad way, so I can find find something "awesome" in everything. While originality can be one factor (as JackGriffin suggested), a high-polished result can be another one.
However, seemingly objective categories like on UnrealSP wouldn't help the situation either. If I were to judge with the formula "visuals, sounds, gameplay, technical execution" in mind, the winners would be obvious. So, I'm probably more going for a subjective route (or in between: what I think is awesome and the map can be viewed in general) which might have the same result, but might also surprise you. See you later.