Doc E
I think you hit it on the head about FC statistics. It'sa totally skewed stat in any breed, in any competition. I know lots of pros that will not even put a female on their field trial string because they don't want to mess with heat cycles.
KD
As far as male and female, I have never noticed one being a better hunter. If you get a well bred dog the end result should be the same. The only thing I have noticed is females mature a little quicker so you can get to the "end result" you desire a little faster. The difference might only be a couple months.
If your in GA and looking for a GSP, there is one of the best breeders in the nation in that state (at least in my opinion). If you haven't already found your pup, i'd be happy to turn you onto them.