Try to visit a loft that is winning at the distance you would like to achieve ,if the person is willing to help you, ask as many questions as you can, write everything down,if your budget's limited see if they are willing to sell you late breds or even give you a few eggs to float under your own birds.Get to know their methods,when to send when not to send.You can be lucky and win right away or be like most fanciers take years to top the race result sheet but when you get there it's great.Most of all if in doubt ask you mentor or leave it at home.
Good luck in your quest.
Lindsay