<p>
</p>
<p>I’d say that’s a pretty accurate impression IMHO. Taking lower-level college math classes in high school has become pretty common, so it makes sense that mathematically talented high school students would want to set themselves apart in other ways. </p>
<p>To OP, don’t worry too much about the Putnam and related competitions if you’re interested in math. Taking advanced courses, getting involved in research, and/or learning useful applications (such as computer science or physics) are much more important.</p>