Hmmm, Well, If I had it to do all over again, This is the direction I would go, especially for sports:


Canon 50D and 70-200 f2.8 L IS---That is alarge chunk of change, but not as much as a Harley.


Rationale: As I found out, a lesser body and glass will yield lesser results and ultimately (within a year) you will be looking to upgrade. If you started out with a high end point and shoot and feel you really have the bug for photography, then start your "investing now".


Let's talk about the body: My recommendation is the 50D. For sports it's great. 4.9 FPS--which is fairly fast, Can use UDMA memory cards ( which are much faster) and is a dynamite all around body for the price ($1,200) if you shop around. One other thing that I have found to be a huge benefit with the 50D is the Micro-Focus adjustment---This really helped with my 100-400L.


The Lens: Though I haven't bought this lens yet, It will be my next. There are400+ 5 Star reviews onB&H and it is probably the most coveted of the Canon lenses. Though it's pricey, when you look at what this lens has to offer, it's not that bad. It would be ideal for what you are looking to do and is also a great all around lens.


If your working with cash only---then save for the good stuff and continue to practice with your point and shoot.


If your considering buying on credit: Well, it's like this, I would rather pay$100a month on something I liked, than $50 dollars a month on something I was unhappy with.


If you are still looking for an XTI, I have one I will sell you--with the kit lens--


That's my 2 Cents worth,


Good Luck,


Bob