When I go to the field the Intruder goes with me. I don't think a fellow can get enough practice because the wind and the weather conditions change constantly. Three inside loops are one thing with the wind going with you. They are totally different in a cross wind or even no wind! Even going from left to right or right to left is different, at least for me.
Durability is not a problem. Do a good pre-flight check, a post flight check, run a bit of castor in your fuel, put a glow plug and wrench in your pocket. Just be sure to watch out for inverted sink holes and moving trees!!!
Parallel to the runway with procedure turn at each end for 3 gallons...yeah! Good start!