I have an idea that I stole from the racing world tha might help level the playing field. For those that are worried about the cost of competing in pattern, why not introduce the idea of a "Claiming" component to a a contest. A graduated scale of money in accordance of class.

Winner of an event's class would have to be willing to sell his ride for a prespecified amount if there were to be any takers.

Sportsman= Exempt
Intermediate=850.00
Advanced= 1100.00
Masters= 2500.00
FAI =exempt

I could understand almost every objection to this idea and I am not the best judge of what amounts should be used for the claiming amounts but it seems to work in other competitions. Just an idea.

Hate it? Love it?