Appreciate everyones input. Seems to be 50/50 with the options. The Union isn't much bigger than the Senate and the speed range recommendation for both skis are 24-32 and 26-34. I am leaning towards the 69 senate alloy at this stage. The only reason I would go the union route is if using the Senate would make progression harder. But they're both pretty big skis at 69" and based on the same shape. Looking forward to anyone else's 2 cents.