Frank D. in Montreal
>Jim gives good advice. It's also good to bring another plane to warm up with, if you can't sharpen on-site. Take as few passes as possible with the plane you'll be using for the competition­. If you hold the front knob make sure you stay centered; if the plane tips it's game over. If thickness doesn't count (it usually does) don't take too thin a shaving for nothing.
Good luck! Wood Central is rooting for you.