I'm feeling a little ornery tonight so here goes. The $$ argument is irrelevant. Pattern is not too expensive compared to other competitive (IMAC) aerobatic events. Period. It's cheaper than jets and probably not more money that a good heli setup. Check out the results from the big Tucson IMAC event almost everyone even the lower classes flew 35 - 40% planes w/ DA 100 and 150's. If someone has a reason not to fly pattern, just say so but don't say it's too expensive. Also, I have been to probably 15 pattern contests in the last 2 years and have NEVER seen anyone w/ a 2meter plane in Sportsman. All were flying Kaos's or Stiks etc. Certainly not too expensive. When I started flying pattern, I too did not get a warm reception from some people. So what. I did not quit - I wanted to fly pattern, and I would do it with or without their assistance. At my first IMAC contest, I was told by 2 people straight out to "go home - you have no chance" with my GP Patty Wagstaff 24%. Nice intro to IMAC huh? These were 2 people that I have never seen before in my life. So what, I won't say that I hate IMAC just because of these 2 dummies. So people are using the excuse that someone hurt their feelings as a reason not to fly pattern?? Come on guys. If it's boring to you say so. If it's too hard, say so. If you think it's lame, silly, etc etc etc. say so. Just don't make excuses.