This is my first TT. I am going to enter in the citizens category. Anyone have any helpful hints to make it as smooth as possible? I read that most beginners start off too fast and tire out towards the middle. Towards the end it is catch up time and you are already spent.

The course only has 196 feet in elevation change and is considered a flat and fast course. It is 24 miles long. I swapped my michellin pro tires for schwalbe ultremo r.1 tires because I can go up to 145 psi on those as compared to 120 on my pro race 3's

I have a few specific questions.

Do i keep my bag with tools and tubes on my bike? Or if I flat am I just done?

The race is at 7:30 and i need to be there at 6:45. What type of food should i eat in preperation.

Any other helpful or good suggestions would be appreciated!