Tex,
I see your from Texas and from your earlier post you would like to get started in pattern. We don't weigh aircraft at competitions in Texas or LA. If you show up to any competition in Texas with a 14lb plane to fly sportsman you will be greeted with a smile and shown the direction of the registration table. I would suggest you do what you can to get the weight down but please don't spend allot of time, money or effort to do so. However, do spend copius amounts of time and effort flying and practicing with your plane. If you end up liking pattern then I guarantee you this Fortuna will not be your last aircraft. When your ready to get your next plane I'll bet things will be a little different.