Elfie, the absolute best kind of dueling partner is one of roughly equal skill. The two of you will push one another for an advantage. You'll both try new things, see if this or that works... anything to get just a little bit better than the other guy.
This is something I hadnt considered until I read it.
I'm now thinking that at least 2 dueling partners is a desirable thing. One that is more skilled than I am and another that is roughly equal skill.
A partner that is roughly equal in skill is desirable for the reasons you mentioned. One would also experience less frustration, since you would win some as well as losing some.
A partner that exceeds your skill level is desirable simply for the learning experiences involved. The frustration level would be higher and hopefully that same frustration would provide more *push* to become better.
Redd, I met Bovidae for the first time in last months KotH. The first time I ran into him I beat him handily and thought *What is this dweeb doing in KotH?*. My opinion of his flight skills changed rapidly and dramatically the very next time I ran into him.

Thanks to all of you for your constructive comments.
Batfink.......prepare to die dweeb!! err uhh...I mean....new dueling partner!
