I have a 75-300mm and in good light, I actually use that more than my 70-200mm 2.8 lens because of the extra reach.. GREAT for sporting activities when you can't get close to the action..

Yeah, the T1i is a great alternative.. You won't be giving up too much.. Both are great cams to learn with.. You might find them cheaper now that the T2i's are out, and can spend more money on glass, which will follow you as you switch bodies.. Bodies come and go, but good glass is irreplaceable.

 

Ok, took the dive tonight. I ended up going with the Canon t1i with an additional IS 55-250mm zoom lens. Also got a UV filter, and a Polarizer filter. This camera is PIMP. Battery is charging right now so that I can play. Thanks for the info Tony. I'm up for any pointers you can give, or anyone else for that matter. Any good forums that you know of for photography?

 

http://digital-photography-school.com/forum/
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/