Recently raced my first race in a 'novice' category, a short tuneup road race where I managed to get into a breakaway and do well. I've got a decent amount of group riding experience and good fitness from a few years in triathlon.

Our local area did away with cat 5 this year as there just wasn't enough participation in the lower cats. Instead they went with a 'novice' system which means that you get 'points' for taking learn to race clinics, joining cycling clubs, and racing in novice races. After 5 points you're given your cat 4 license (UCI).

Basically the situation right now is even though I have only participated in 1 'real' race, i'm technically eligible to race in the 3/4's in a stage race that's upcoming in a couple weeks.

I still plan on racing in the 4/5 (now called 4/novice) when available in the races further on in the season, but this particular one only has a 3/4.

Good idea? Terrible idea? I'm thinking I may as well give it a shot - I'm not a sketchy rider, I think I know what NOT to do in a race situation, so likely if I don't do well it'll just mean I'm OTB.