Paul,
Since you are just starting in electric you can do a very simple setup that will work really well until you reach expert level in competition. Just use the control line mode in the ESC (I use Castle ESC's). Set for fixed rpm, set the rpm you want in all three throttle sections (make sure you set the cutoff for sensitive and fast, this saves the ESC if you have a prop stopping event). Set the brake to fast and 90%ish. Now use the timer set to 100% throttle in all sections, use the timer just to set the start delay (I use 20 sec) and flight time.
This system setup gives you power as needed to pull vertical and brake as the ship goes downhill. Electrics by nature add power as the load increases and reduces it as the load comes off, they hold a pretty constant speed. After you get a little more familiar with how electrics work you can add the other more complex stuff.
Best, DennisT