I think the advice to look at the Oregon Bird Dog Challenge is sound. Most people new to the game don't have a dog that is 100% broke, might only work well with an e-collar on, and might be best run in a singles event. BDC events, by all accounts, fit that bill.
The Port-Van Pointing Dog Club isn't a bad place for newbs either.
NSTRA would have more traction if events were not so far to the east.
AKC and AF trials draw the dedicated. That's where pointing dog perfection is required.