Where do you plan to fly the model?

Have you asked at the LHS where the glider guys fly?

You mentioned that you're an experienced full scale pilot. That's probably going to be a disadvantage, it has been with almost every pilot I've worked with or seen. It would be a good idea to search out some RCers near you and see about flying with them. They'll be glad to have you. And they'll save you a bunch of frustration.