I agree - sometimes money gets tight and you have to cut corners. I've had to take part time jobs to keep up with the hobby over the years. I don't compete anymore, but do get involved in club activities.

And the bottom line any more is that a club make profit on their events, or they go down the tubes. They have to be run like a business. And part of doing business is making profit from the efforts you put forth. Anyone that can afford a $6000 or more plane surely can find the entry fee to put their investment in the air.