first/the first

[petr]

I´d like to ask when we use the first and first
For example I was surpised when I saw sentence: He won first price.-without the
thanks in advance

[mykwyner]

We omit the article to avoid ambiguity.

"He won the first prize" could mean that he won the first prize that was given out. That prize could have been for "honorable mention, last place."

We would, however say, "He won the blue ribbon," or "He won the first-place trophy."

[Humble]

Hi Petr,
I've never seen a rule, but my listening/reading practice tells me you should not use the with cardinals in a context of competitions:
X. came second in the race.
Our team won third place.
M. Mirny was seventh.
And not only in sport.
Best wishes.