There is truth to the simulator bit ... if you want to drop $200. I'm 47 and my boy is 15. we've been flying the simulator, and I have had sailplane experience. We went out with an LT-40 trainer from SIG and had about three good flights on New Year's eve day 2003. After taking off, my first with powered craft, I even turned the TX over to my boy - no experience but simulator. He landed the plane beautifully. HOWEVER, the next day, I got "brain freeze," lack of experience, and buried it in the ground! Should've had more "live" help from experienced pilot!