I think it is commendable that you have been so thorough in both giving people feedback and doing some self-evaluation of this tremendous effort. I think you have succinctly assessed the pros and cons and that can only translate into future, better, community-consolidating contests.
I was just looking from behind the fence. and i was just mesmerized at the results. Not having the resources to participate so actively and honestly not having the poetic voice, I did not even dare to try. However, i was closely looking at my dear friend, @marlyncabrera, who told me about the challenge and sort of invited me, and besides becoming a zombie for most of the last 3 moths, she actually became a brilliant poet.
I admire her talent and courage/determination and i think that that is extensive to all the participants.
Bottom line, it was a great idea, which can be honed and a bunch of people, myself included, are being benefited of having the chance to read amazing poetry that would not have been written otherwise.
Thanks for your kind words, @hlezama. I'm not sure I deserve them, but they feel just nice anyway; I'll keep them close to my heart. Your words feel really nice after I've been three months without doing the laundry ☻ I feel rewarded, seriously; much appreciated ♥