I personally like the idea of 'updating' the PA pattern. I believe that the Master's class should be earned by setting a winning point standard that the top experts achieve to. Brodak's, VSC, were started with the intent of personal enjoyment. If you want your name in the record books then the Nats are the place for you. Competition is fun and for most of us it should be kept that way. I personally will never get out of the Intermediate class. I am getting too old and the hand is just not as steady as it once was. With that thought perhaps some thought might given to doing classes at VSC and Brodak's. I attended VSC this past spring and finished 3 rd. from the bottom right in front of one who did not fly and a crash. The trip probably cost me a $1000 in gas, eats, and the RV park but I went back home with a smile on my face and I had fun. At this later stage in life isn't the enjoyment of good friends, food, and camaraderie more important than getting another plaque? For me the retired life is all about having fun again similar to when I was a kid. This is the first summer in 50 years that I have enjoyed the summer. Clear skies, warm temps., light breezes.............it don't get no better than this in north Texas.
Jerry