OK, so I have never flown pattern, and I don't have a pattern ship, but I want to. I need advice on what is what. There are references all over this place about IMAC and F3A (i think) and three or four others. I am guessing these are different subgroups of competition pattern flying???? Where does one start?? Which one is best? Pros Cons of each? Opinions please. I looked at the IMAC 2009 routine and it looked greek to me. I was able to figure out what some of the manuevers were, but there were symbols that I have no idea what they meant. There were references to the manuevers discription, but I guess you have to have the manual or something. Please explain. I also would like advice on a good beginner pattern ship that is fairly inexpensive. I plan to build a bridie .40 this fall. I really like the looks of the old school pattern planes. Your input is appreciated. Thank you.