Hi wingspan99!

Bean is totally right... and...

>>Maybe improving my overall ability to balance a stick on one finger would help me balance the plane on the prop.

Hmmmm... that's not a bad idea. :-) But, TR'n is like alot of things... the best way to practice for _____ is to do it.

It always starts with the plane for me. I want to get it setup to respond as close to my expectations for my inputs as possible. The CG, the amount of throw, and the expo change the way the plane responds... so this is the first place I start on a new plane.

Next... you want to feel good (not come to the field after wrenching all night)... be relaxed... not rushed or anxious about anything. TR at no more than 50' and preferably 30' (bring it down lower when you have the skills and horsepower to be sure you can always get out of trouble). Then really focus your eyes on the plane... hard... and instead of waiting for it to fall out... try to anticipate what it's going to do and get a small correction in early. Keep anticipating and keep getting in early.

Then there's conditions... even a little wind will make me work for it... the no wind days are a real treat. TR'n is so much easier with no wind. Try to get in on the no wind time of day to strengthen your odds of success.

Be totally fearless, but not reckless... if that's possible.<g>