Originally Posted by
Andy_K
You are so far ahead of the game, I can't even tell you. The typical CX newbie is an out-of-shape 45-year-old wondering if he can race on his 8-year old CX/Commuter bike (but he does like beer).
Fixed that for me!
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First, as has been said and will surely be said again, just go enter a race and have fun. Bring a spare lung along just in case; I know I wish I had done that.
Second, good idea to go watch a race first. Hang out at the technical sections and watch how people handle barriers, run-ups, dismounts/remounts. Then find some place to practice what you saw. I surprised myself that these things were not as difficult to perform as I thought they would be, but without a little practice I am sure I would have crashed out.
Third, check your local area to see if any stores, clubs or race organizers hold clinics. I know of a couple in my area (but unfortunately work has kept me from attending).
Four, read the "tips of Newbies" that Andy_K mentioned. Also check YouTube for "how to" videos on the technical aspects.
Five, see picture below:
