I was initially sceptic about competition aerobatics, not sure about being watched, all seemed a bit artificial. I was very very wrong. Competition aerobatics provided a structured learning path, and a set of goals that have forced me practise, learn and become a better pilot. I used to aerobat just for fun, and it was not until I had a Spin/unusual attitude lesson with Alan Cassidy. That I learned I did not know as much as I should. Its an all too common phrase "I dont need any training as I am only doing basic aerobatics"
No such thing in my book.
Six years into comp aeros, and I still use lessons learnt from my first trip with Alan while I am training. If you are aerobating without proper spin training, then stop. Loops and stall turns can become erect/inverted spins in a heartbeat, and erect spins can become inverted if misshandled.(Honestly how many weekend aerobatic pilots practice spinning?)
Alan Cassidy, Ultimate high ect run good advanced spinning courses.
Both competition and weekend aerobatics are great great fun, and long shall they continue....but I know which group have had better spin awareness.
All in IMHO of course.