Jagee

I know--I wasn't really serious. I do think your advice is right on though--adrenaline can be problematic if it means you freak out and burn through too much energy. It's like my first open water swim--I went out like Michael Phelps (well I felt like Michael Phelps anyway) and after about 6-7 minutes I lost all form and was scrambling and sucking wind like a drowned rat. I like the idea of settling in at a reasonable (sustainable) pace that allows you to take advantage of different parts of the course.

As far as sprinting out of the blocks to avoid congestion off the bat--this may be less of an issue for me. I think as part of my inaugural 'cross appearance, I may take a more conservative starting approach; I'm gonna hang back initially. Well, I say that now, but of course there's always that adrenaline...