first race

tim000

got my first race next weekend . any tips except ride fast? :shock:

tgotb

Don't take it too seriously, especially on the start line, or if you find you're doing well. It's not a road race, people wearing their race face on the start line risk being laughed at.
If you can, ride a couple of laps of the course before your race (but *not* when other people are racing!)
If you think you're going to be reasonably quick, don't pace the first half lap; just go flat out, or you'll end up stuck behind people who went flat out. If you don't think you're going to be particularly quick, start near the back and trundle round; you'll soon find people going the same sort of speed to battle with.
Don't be disappointed or surprised if you get lapped. Riders lapping you should shout "Right" or "Left" to let you know which side they're passing. Be considerate and don't block them, but you're not expected to give up loads of time to let them past; anyone fast enough to lap you should be able to get past you fairly easily if you're not actually blocking them.
Don't pump your tyres up too hard (see other threads on here or ask other riders; 30psi might be a good starting point).
It takes a lot of effort to put these races on; if you get the chance, thank a few marshals.

tim000

thanks . the coarse is local so already had a look . I`ll try not to get too competitive but old habits die hard . used to do a lot of rowing and raced to quite a high level . looking forward to it .

cyclingsheep

Don't swear, especially at other riders, cutting up is allowed in CX, commissaries take a dim view on swearing due to in being an entry level sport so loads of kids around.

Moonbiker

Its all about the hole-shot if you want to be a contender.