The Type Of Reminding Favor That Is Abhorred In Quran
If the intention is not bad, it does not fall into the category of ‘reminding the favour’. It is always the principle of ehtical and unethical which makes a matter difference.
You can put these two examples to common people. The moral judgment in our conscience is enough to tell us what is bad and what is just a matter of healthy competition in the example you cited.