I wouldn't mind seeing gas engines, but I have my doubts. In order for them to really compete with glow engines they're going to have to use the same types of materials technology used in dedicated pattern engines to reduce weight and such, which raises the price. So, you end up with a relatively expensive gas engine per displacement that significantly limits the potential market. Could happen, but I'm not holding my breath.

Pattern isn't cheap, but neither is any other SIG and pattern is less expensive than a lot of them. With all the inexpensive and good flying 60/90 sized pattern ARFs available it's hard for me to accept that cost or technology is keeping anyone from trying pattern. I interact with lots of sport flyers and for the most part they're simply not interested in practicing or competing. Rather than say that, some will say cost is the reason.

As always, pattern will continue advance incrementally, not radically. Look for maneuvers to become more entertaining as airframe design and engines continue to improve.

Kudos to Jim Woodward for identifying his professional association with Futaba along with his opinion. I wish some others on this list would do the same.