Good comments. I was lucky enough to get into a good group here in Dallas. They were very cool, very welcoming, and walked me through the requirements. I never felt like my equipment was being scrutinized other than for safety.
They were also encouraging at the end of the event and my results (while not in last place) were fairly predictable as a first time event participant.
Safety is far more important than equipment when you're a newbie, IMHO. Shooting with your feet moving is very alien to a lot of people new to competitive shooting.
As a result of the quality people in the club I first attended, I've returned a few times, but not as often as I'd like. Time is tight for me, like many others.
But great insight on this thread- I remember very well what my first event was like and I was quite nervous. Great people with the right attitude at the club make all the difference in the world.
Spot on comments on this thread IMO.
Neil
Dallas, TX