Interesting thread. I flew beginner pattern in the 98-2000 timeframe.

What is missing in pattern is a true beginners fly-what-you-brung true entry level. It's not the sequence that was the beginners problem, it was this slow evolution that if I didn't go spend $2K on a "propper" pattern plane then there wasn't really any reason to bother to even show up.

I flew a CG Tiger 60 and placed first or second in novice at my first three contests. Beating guys that had "better" planes but were far worse flyers.

Back to the OP; No a novice CANNOT judge a pattern contest without some form of classroom training as to what is right and what is wrong. Without that you are dealing with feelings not judging.

I quit flying pattern, or at least going to contests when the eletist equipment snobbery took over for who can fly better, ignoring the equipment he's flying.

I will forever be greatful to Bob Pastorelli for teaching me the fundimental basics of pattern flying and how to judge.

Tom Solinski
AMA 8026