Seems to me this was discussed recently on the SPA email list. I think one member suggested that your points should only count if you are flying an SPA plane. That way, any newcomer could try out Novice with any type of plane, but it wouldn't effect the yearly standings for those who compete at multiple contests using SPA planes (the dedicated competitors). I have read that the SPA's Novice class has been growing quite a bit this year. I would guess that if enough members cause a big enough stir, they will look for a solution.

Like Ed was saying, practice (something that I don't do, so I'm one to talk). The best solution is to work your own way up to Sportsman.

David