You do not need to be a Registered Participant in order to compete, however, one of the benefits is that you will get three days advance notice of all trials which may be the difference between getting into a trial that fills quickly and not getting in.
Other benefits include receiving the e-newsletter in your email once it is published, discounts on dog registrations, and swag.
This registration renews annually to continue to receive the benefits and can be cancelled before the next renewal.