It is a lot of money. I personally have been cooking for friends and family but have never done a comp which I want to do. I don't expect to win anything right away but I want to do my best. I would rather spend this money up front which for myself would shorten the learning curve to competitive cooking rather than spending the money on entry fees and learning on the fly. Plus I will get to me some good people and probably enjoy some good food. Again you are right it is a lot of money but like I said..shorten the learning curve without the expense of meat and travel.