new racer- best tip?

[carbonjockey]

I am just starting racing this spring after riding club for a couple years and i was wondering what the best tip youve learned is. Ive ridden in packs for a while so i am fairly comfortable with that. also i am a junior- is there any mistake that every junior makes that i can capitalize on? i know its a broad topic, but i appreciate any and all comments

[transplant]

read the thread at the top of the page

[Toxanadu]

have fun and never get an ego.

[Homebrew01]

Go faster than the other guys.

Question like this don't really have a good answer. You have to go out there & race & learn firsthand. After you've got a few races behind you, you may have specific questions that we can focus on.

[GuitarWizard]

read the thread at the top of the page

+1

1. Don't tape your number to your jersey. Use pins.
2. Don't stare at the wheel directly in front of you, but look a few people ahead so you can anticipate.
3. Try to stay in the front 1/3 of the pack if possible. Easier said than done.
4. If you're nervous, just pretend its a big group ride. With a wheel truck and an escort.
5. If someone bumps you/rubs knuckles, stay relaxed and calm.
6. Get there at least an hour early.
7. If/when you get dropped, go into time trial mode and don't get discouraged. Sure, you'll feel like you want to die, but think of how good of a workout you're getting in doing so.
8. Have fun
9. Don't forget your license at home.
10. Pack everything for the race the night before.
11. Depending on the type of race, get an adequate warm-up in for what you will be racing.

[prendrefeu]

2 Steps to be a better racer:

1. Observation.

Here's a start: observe this forum. Note that there is a STICKIED THREAD (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=380788) at the very top of the forum's list of threads. Note the title of that thread. READ that thread. You will find your answer there. Observation is useful - you'll need it while racing, working, and in relationships. :)

2. Ego.

You will be yelled at - don't let your ego get dropped, and certainly don't inflate it to think that you are perfect. Accept humility, gain your strength, and keep riding.

[botto]

I am just starting racing this spring after riding club for a couple years and i was wondering what the best tip youve learned is. Ive ridden in packs for a while so i am fairly comfortable with that. also i am a junior- is there any mistake that every junior makes that i can capitalize on? i know its a broad topic, but i appreciate any and all comments

pay attention (http://bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=380788).