ORIGINAL: impactiq
SPA is having a "Open Class" (pipes and retracts, for pattern planes like the Alanta ) contest in April 2006. I believe it is the 22 and 23. I can not remember the location..... With any luck, there will be enough open class planes to give the SPA a reason to consider this class as a regular.
However, I believe that one can fly any plane in the novice class. Not 100% sure on that... so do not quote me on that.
You are correct! Any AMA approved aircraft can be flown in the novice class but retract gear must stay extended. SPA flyers can spend big bucks on OS 91 FSs but not on retracts.