I started flying pattern with a Big Stik 60 at the age of 65. I had a very successful first year and managed to become District 6 Points Champion in Sportsman and moved up to Intermediate the next year. Sportsman can be flown with a decent sport plane successfully and some of the guys whipping me in intermediate are doing it with Sequences and other similar planes. Get something that can do the maneuvers and practice. Sportsman level is a very good learning experience and there will never be a shortage of help in any of the classes as yoou move up. Have fun.

Sheldon