Nice analogy Wind Junkie about the country club and skateboarders. Skiers and Snowboarders are another good example

However, in this case the NSRCA, which is the Special Interest Group for Pattern flying, is endorsing and promoting "Artistic Aerobatics", which is Pattern's answer to the IMAC freestyle (or flip flopping).

It's my impression that people in both IMAC and Pattern can marvel at the incredible feats of 3D flying, however both IMAC and Pattern are based on the fundamentals of precision flying. Indeed even TOC, which derives much attention for it's freestyle, is primarily judged on precision flying.

Therefore, if one desires to compete and be competitive they must perfect their precision skills. That's why Pattern and IMAC competitors desire to primarily focus in on precision flying. It's not that all precision fliers don't respect 3D flying.

3D attracts a lot of attention even from those who don't care about precision flying and competition. This is fine and in fact probably great for the hobby if it draws more interest and participation. I don't really see this as anything new as this hobby has always had more people just flying for fun than competing, that's just normal.

Keith