(1) I became the art project leader.
(2) I got first place in the science contest.
(A Korean middle school English textbook)
What are the reasons that the first sentence has an article and the other none?
Answer
I'm afraid the only reason to be given is that that is how we say it.
(Usually: you will sometimes see get/win/achieve the first/second/third place/prize, but this is rather old-fashioned and formal.)
There is no semantic principle involved. For instance, you will almost never see awards such as trophies, blue ribbons, and cups, the traditional marks or accompaniments of first place, without the article—even named trophies, like the Heisman Award or the Stanley Cup.
Even place takes an article (indefinite) when it designates achieving membership in a class: Our band was awarded a first place in the state competition, meaning it was one of several bands which won the top rating of '1'.
But if you beat the entire field you come in Ø first place, no article.
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