ORIGINAL: CGRetired
Take a look at this. It describes the pattern sequences used in competition for the beginner NSRCA level (Sportsman category).
http://nsrca.us/documents/judging/PPT_Sportsman2007.pdf
Of course, the very first thing you really need to do, as already pointed out, is to fly straight and level with "hands off" the transmitter, then land straight and down the center line. Basic maneuvers are covered in the above link (loops, rolls, and so on).
CGr.
CGRetired,
I don't want to hijack this thread. Just wanted to say thank you for posting this. I just printed it off (like goirish) to give to my son. The other day, he saw a plane that was described as a "pattern plane" (not sure which one) and was asking me about pattern flying. I had no idea, other than guessed it was a series of manueuvers put together. I am about to finish his Tiger 60 kit, and he can hardly wait to fly it. I decided on the Tiger for him, mostly because after reading so many threads on here where so many people (including yourself, as I recall) really liked it. He is 12 years old and can fly his Nexstar around doing inverted circuits, and is now trying to do precise maneuvers. Some are kind of tough with the Nexstar. I am pretty sure he will be able to do some nice manuevers with the Tiger. I put him on the buddy box with my H-9 Pulse last time out. Second flight he did the take off and some really nice flying.
Thanks again,
Pete