Except for practice, Sport Jet seems to be the perfect event for both experienced as well as new-to-speedsters.
I hesitate to say it is a good beginner event because I am certain that there is no good speed event for a rank beginner. Speed flying is not nearly as technical as stunt, carrier, racing and can't be more demanding than scale, but ANY speed engine setup can be a PITA. Running a recip on the ragged edge of RPM demands attention to many variables in terms of prop, compression and fuel delivery. Mr Tenny in his infinite wisdom provided us with an almost perfect propulsion system [I for one can live w the heat and actually like the sound]
Use common sense to keep it simple [read easier, but not easy]!!!
Even with no prop or plug, there are still enough variables in skill and design to keep it interesting. DO NOT LIMIT DESIGN!!! Let us Rube Goldberg types enjoy something.
The event existed in several places and seemed to be very popular in the Northwest, using some form of rules that must have worked for everyone involved. This proves both the worth of the event and the necessity for SOME rules.
I always mention Mouse Racing when I get on one of these JAGS. Don't allow SJ to become MR!!!
.21 SS, like almost all other events, has advanced to the point where the top 5 competitors can EXCHANGE airplanes and the results will be the same. This is a good thing, because this is REAL racing. A body of knowledge exists, and if a person is patient and attentive, this knowledge will become apparent.
SJ, with varibles limited to "stock" engines or readily available BOLT IN replacement parts, leaves only airframe, building and flying skill as the focus. I am sure that there is "a perfect" design out there for SJ, but so far, none has become apparent.
Funny, a stock DJ is probably the simplest speed engine to maintain. [just a little touchy getting helpers]
BTW
The thing I like about this FORUM is that it may attract some guys that fly other disciplines, just as it seems BIG JOEY has turned to stunting!!!