Originally Posted by
maustin
I think what drives all of us in pattern is the excitement of the competition!! Newbies to a certain extent must naturally become excited about competing and the nudging of a mentor always helps. Not sure why a pattern contest does not make money for a club. I assisted with the first ever pattern contest in Mesa Az back in 2012 and we put almost $600 in the clubs piggy bank with 20 pilots attending. The club did absolutely nothing except grant us use of the field for the weekend.
When NSRCA puts on a contest it is not uncommon to split the pilots fees with the hosting club. Seems fair as we pattern pilots are taking over their field for at least 3 days. Other often over-looked expenses are porta-potty rentals, bottled water and ice, gasoline for the generators (sites that don't have power) which often run all day. Coffee and donuts are also occasionally provided. The trophies or plaques are not expensive, but 15 or so they add up. Not much left at the end of the day. If you're in it for prizes.....well.....