I flew in a pattern contest my first year flying model airplanes. I flew a Phoenix Dolphin, similar to the Tiger etc. It was a lot of fun and I have been flying pattern ever since.

What you need for pattern is to show up to a contest and to bring whatever airplane you have - mid or low wing preferable. You will learn more from one day at a pattern contest than you can imagine. Most pattern pilots are great at making the new guy feel welcome and helping him learn the ropes.

The only requirement is the ability to takeoff and land your airplane safely.

Work on one thing at a time, don't worry if the whole sequence is challenging, and don't put too much pressure on yourself. Just have fun and give it a try. Your flying skills will improve so fast you will laugh about the first few times you struggled.

A good place to start is flying a straight line back and forth, with a 1/2 reverse cuban 8 at either end.

Feel free to PM me with any questions as I am fairly involved in pattern flying.