Hi all,

My name is Carlos and I recently started flying Pattern at the Sportsman level here in California. I just want to say that I have found it a gratifying learning experience, regardless of the ups and downs. I know it is hard to get the manuevers and sequences correctly, but it takes much patience, practice, sweat, good coaching, and above all attitude! When I go up to the judges, I tell them that I am there to enjoy and have fun. At the end of my sequence, I get my score sheets and listen to their input, be it positive or negative. I still appreciate it and take in what I can learn. Yeah, I still get he shaky knees, the heart thumping and the adrenaline rush. Yeah, I also know that I mess up on my sequence, but I do not pout on the scores because I know I will get better. Sportmanship is part of competition in my opinion; getting to know other people, commaderie, improving skills and gaining discipline while being respectful to others under competition situations. If you cannot take the pressure then do not show up, stay at home. Sorry, sore losers or cheating winners have no place in fair competition whichever the sport/hobby may be.

Just my 2 cents.

CT

"The Most Interesting Man in the World"