Janet, you sound like a very gracious competitor, I hope someday to meet you in person.

As for the assorted questions regarding syllabus dress, and when someone can dance Gold and/or Novice, I've heard back from my DanceSport Representative. He tells me that all these issues are being discussed, and in particular agrees that the point that Anonymous and I were discussing is unclear. Right now I'm aware of at least three interpretations, depending on how people look at all the rules -- my Regional VP just came up with another interpretation different from both Anonymous' and mine.

When I find out more, I'll let everyone know!