RE: IMAC Newbie ... General Questions
First, the sequence can be flown in either direction. Generally, most start into the wind but it's not required. Just tell the judges which direction you will be flying. If a spin is involved in the sequence, it is much easier to do if it is started into the wind. So select the direction that puts you into the wind for the spin.
If this will be your first contest, I would suggest "Basic" if for no other reason than to see how the contests are run and still be a part without a lot of pressure. The higher up in the levels you go the more ( longer) you get to fly, the sequences are longer.