So, Wonko... ATA brought you into the game. Likewise here.
I got out of it what I wanted, which was some reasonable level of proficiency and moved on. As you point out, it's not worth persuing to a high level for most. I've won some small club shoots since, and once in a while score 100 or perhaps run a straight at 23 or 24 yards. Doubles is a great way to make empties and the best event in trap. I'm a club shooter, but the ATA intro has lead to an enjoyable hobby.
I shoot skeet, five stand and sporting with reasonable success. Like you, I would love to try Helice and might end up simply buying a double machine and some targets.
Much as I'd like to, I can't dedicate my life to this. Those who can, much like the olympic candidates, will be the ones to come out on top. This is the appeal of the classification and handicaping systems, it makes for a playable game at different levels. That equals shoot attendance, which equals facilities for us to use for other disciplines.
I would argue that premounted sporting takes any less skill than unmounted, or FITASC rules. The course designer is in control of the final scores. The target setter knows the rules of competition and sets the course accordingly. The goal is a happy medium where the top dogs can show their supreme skill and the newbies don't throw their clubs in the lake. It's not that easy to achieve.
