Have you checked out the CBR race this Sunday. The Cat5 is a bit early at 7:00am but then you could stick around and watch the rest of the races. Not sure if he still does but Chris Lott, head of CBR, used to do a quick beginners clinic before the start of the CAT5 races - basically what to do, what not to do, what to expect, etc. Personally, I don't think you could find a better race to start out with. I just started racing last year and my first races were at CBR. I plan on racing the CAT4 & 30+ 3/4 this Sunday.
http://www.californiabicycleracing.o....bike.race.pdf