gaRCfield....
grab your Venus and head to a contest!
http://www.mini-iac.com/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=76
There are a couple more this year in your region...
You'll get a good idea about IMAC and the people and the planes..
Just go for it.....
Let the CD know it is your first contest.. and they should pair you up with an experienced pilot....
Just go for it......
Then you'll have the winter to decide which way to go....
Trust me, you'll love it!
I know I do!
Also, here is a video of the Basic sequence. This is flown on the simulator by Wayne Geffon
http://www.bbw.shutupandfly.com/Basic2008.wmv