There are hints on getting started in competition aerobatics on the NSRCA website: www.nsrca.org Also tips on trimming the aircraft for best performance.

NSRCA (National Society of Radio Controlled Aerobatics) is the special interest group for pattern competitors in the AMA.

The advise to split up the maneuver sequence and practice one at a time is good. You will also want to practice the maneuvers in sequence, and be able to do it consitently before going to a competition.

You need at least 4 people at your practice sessions. Your spotter/caller, You and 2 observers. (these are in order of importance REALLY!)

Your spotter/caller's job is to help you avoid hitting other aircraft, or warn you if a plane is potentially going to hit YOU and to tell you which maneuver is next. He's going to be too busy to judge if your maneuvers are done right.

Your job is to fly the plane safely. If you aren't doing it safely, you aren't doing it right.

The observers are to judge how you perform. The pilot always thinks his loop is round. 99% of loops done by R/C flyers are egg shaped at best.

The most usefull hint I can give for your first competition: Get the plane OUT 250 ft from you. Its a lot further out than you are used to flying. Its out further than the normal downwind traffic pattern leg. This distance gives you space and time to perform the maneuvers. (it is also the distance listed for AMA Pattern competition and too close is a downgrade.) Having judged 4 Pattern contests, I have yet to see a Sportsman (beginning level competitor) that flew more than 180 ft out.

Note that the maneuver sequence changes every 2 years. It will be different next year than it is now.