The DP Extra is a nice 3D plane, but I'm really not too thrilled with its snap characteristics for competition. You have to get the perfect amount of elevator and rudder in, otherwise it turns into a very sloppy snap. In comparison I have flown a WM Extra that snapped very cleanly with full throws. The GP Extra would make a very nice choice in competition, easily capable of competing seriously in Intermediate and even above. You don't have to have a $2500+ setup to be competitive; just the drive to practice and continually improve.