Curt,
Sport-Jet is the best beginning speed class (other than Perky) for someone with CL skills. This class does not require the time investment or learning curve of the serious recip speed classes. You will need a spark ignition source and an air tank, or someone to run a tire pump. Starting a sport jet is instant, but noisy. One point to consider from a safety angle, where there is no enclosure to fly speed in, is the potential (and in my view) serious danger to bystanders of a takeoff dolly. Jets move fast, and a dolly can travel quite a distance after separation. Underwing skids make it easy to take off without a dolly, both on present short lines as well as possible longer lines.
A stock DynaJet will get you going just fine, but I believe you will need a new Jet Bill, or old Bailey sport engine for serious contest work.
Practice on the pylon with your Perky, using lines shortened so you cover 10 lap in, say, 18 seconds or less. Build an upright airplane which does not need a dolly, and you'll be on your way. Good luck.
Will Stewart