Rockstar- I have to say, the Losi 8ight T RTR is a kit that I have been pushing on him. We will see what he picks in the end. I told him about potentially getting a buggy instead to cut down costs (as mentioned above), so I gave him some websites to check out kits when he has spare time.
I hope soon I can get him to join the forums so he can absorb some knowledge about the different upgrades and requirements for competition. For now, I am the messenger lol.
He didn't go for the Tamiya because of the potential parts shortage. But I might pick one up myself as an extra basher/fun-racer if they still have them in stock come my Christmas bonus :-) I loved my Terra Crusher so I don't mind taking a chance with Tamiya. Especially if I can just upgrade parts that break along the way.
EDIT: KJA- Thank you for the words of wisdom. I just need to get him out to a track so he can either get the bug or realize that competition nitro RC might not be for him.