Thanks for the reply....you managed to get my point across with a lot less words.

In some ways, the "SPA Experience" as I call it is hard to describe. We are a "family" of sorts. Getting together for contests is a little like a family reunion, but because of leaders like Bruce Underwood, there is a real effort put forth by the membership to welcome newcomers, and a high value is placed on the individual having a good time.

During my first couple contests, people came by just to ask if I was enjoying myself. I was disappointed with my flying, and I was told very quickly that having a good time is where it's atflying well and maybe winning something is "gravy".

This has nothing to do with what is "Classic", but we've already talked a lot about that.

The VR/CS folks are also a good group, but "pattern competition" is a very small part of the emphasis there, so I lean toward SPA because my first love is pattern....practicing and performing those maneuvers..then talking about them, comparing notes, and going back up there to work on them some more.

Asheville SPA is July 12-13-see you there-you're more than welcome to come down and get together again.

Duane