Sharpclassic,
Yes you're right. Because in those days CTC took only the best onto their scheme. No they will take anyone that can stump up the cash. Back in the day if you failed selection you moved onto another route to achieve your dream. Failing CTC selection then never meant you weren't good enough to become a good pilot, it just meant that you didn't meet CTC's criteria.
It's such a sad state of affairs now.
L Met