While there aren't a lot of "stock designs" on the lists in previous years, you can almost consider rides like Dr. Diabolical's Cliffhanger or Tumbili "off the shelf" or "standard layouts" that made some sort of "the most anticipated"/"exciting new ride lists", etc.
I'm not sure if there was a list of most anticipated rides for attractions like Sol Spin/Cargo Loco..but if there was, would the hype actually be there to make it on that list?
It's not just you. And to answer your question, I highly doubt it, but if you did know about it, it would be well after the fact of die hard fans finding out.
Golden Ticket Awards are funny in my book. I often disagree with the winners and know several who do as well. It's a "popularity" contest that only a few get to vote in. It'd be more of a benefit if a wider audience got to vote.