I have until mid-may to find another 15 points (10 can be masters!) to go 2->1 in under a year and not have to use the "points never expire" clause. I did my first race at 31 and bought a bike at age 28.

I feel like the goal should always be to upgrade as upgrading is just an effect of doing well. If you're going to race, you might as well try to do well.