Curing Lens Envy

I came across this article while browsing for lens-related stuff. According to the information quoted, 78% of contest winning photo entries were shot with 50mm "normal" lenses. That's taken from The Amateur Photographer's Handbook circa 1973; I wonder if the figures have changed since then?

I should seriously consider bringing my tripod out more often. And possibly getting a more reliable one, aince my cheap tripod head frequently tends to edge out of position under the weight of the camera.