RE: Do I stand a chance?
I think a Citabria could do the Sportsman too. I think the biggest challenge will be rudder coupling and upright vs. inverted trim. It will probably want to roll with rudder input. Just practice those hammerhead turns and be ready to keep it lined up with aileron and elevator.
I agree with dam630. The two biggest contributors to my improvement are reading the judging standards and getting a coach.