So, we in the AMA have seen the traditional competition participation dwindle. We are not bringing in the young folks, instead folks worry about themselves for the most part. We have seen clubs not even greet a dad and son when they show up to watch, or maybe have a new plane in the car looking for help. Its just like how only 2-3 guys, do everything at the field. You can't even get folks to help CD a fun fly. Then, add in the cost of entry, sure I know, Sportsman can be flown with an Eagle II, but that is not what people see. They see the $2500 all composite full blown ship and think there is no way on God's green earth that will ever be them...so they pass. We see this in Pylon, and in scale too. Multirotors can be done for under $500, and folks trip all over themselves to help new guys, maybe some of the gray haired folks should stand up and take notice. Grab a young flyer and buddy box him or her on your pattern ship, or the days of competition are, well...numbered!
Believe it or not, control line has actually boosted membership in some of my clubs! How... they invented a buddy handle, and anyone who walks up and wants to try gets to, and it is more than one guy doing it. The whole club does it!

Bryan Wood
AMA District XI VP