novice to pro ...

when do you think its time to step up to pro armwrestling from the novice ranks

I never have competed in the novice ever, and went straight to the Brits.
Personally I believe people stay too long in novice sections, in most strength sports.
Go up and wet your feet, and take your defeats. Competing against better quality athletes usually makes you better.

I was a novice for around 6 months and then Mr Horne pummled me on the left

Well you get all well and chipper for our rematch - it'll be fun!

Good to see you here posting.

For me personally, two years is long enough spend in the novices. If i'm NOT making any progress after that amount of time i'll have to give myself a reality check.
I agree with David's comment, i would MUCH rather be taking my defeats off the pro's and learning from them, than beating novices and not testing myself as much as i should.
I believe those who chose not to move forward do so because of pride and you all know the old saying "pride is before a fall".

i will be stepping up in the new year,after a year of solid training on the table i feel iv made huge progress,training with lee and tom for bout 8 months and learning from them has helped bigtime,now i gotta keep the ball rolling and keep improving