No, Team Rocket is almost as bad as Ash. They've spent years trying to steal pikachu (a pokemon that isn't even that good), failing every single time. They aren't even getting paid, and they usually go days without eating.
Giovanni and Gary Oak are pretty much tied in my book. Gary usually rides around in a Ferrari filled with supermodels, and Giovanni is apparently the richest person in the series.
Oh, I meant in awesomeness. Yeah, Team Rocket would get destroyed by Gary.
And if I remember correctly, didn't Ash in the first series get badges for doing everything but fighting?
Brock - Kids got involved and sprinklers being used
Misty - Team Rocket attacks
Surge - ... it was a rematch wasn't it? So thats a good win
Grass chick - Saved her Gloom from a fire
Sabrina - Made her laugh (>_>)
Fire guy - For some reason, decided to change the layout so it was to the advantage of Charizard.... Probably a good win
Koga - I can't remember >_>
Giovanni - Beat Team rocket -_-