Interesting, the coach or no coach discussion so often revolves around fitness and training schedules. Just about anyone can get to 95% or so of their potential with a little reading, a minimum of thinking and some trial and error. There are a ton of fast, fit Cat 4's and 3's out there who never learn how to play the game. And I'll bet if you asked them why they don't get results they would have some fitness related answer, they need more FTP, speed work, whatever. Where a coach or mentor can really earn their keep is showing a newbie how to prepair for races, and how to race.