If you REALLY want to be there, you'll be there, no matter what well meaning friends say or your own best interests may dictate. At least you have help on hand if things go wrong during a race. GuitarWizard's post touched on the seriousness of that 'other' crazy sport I've taken part in. That gnawing uncertainty of the outcome when the storm moves in is not something I remember fondly. By 'outcome' I mean staying alive. Huge difference knowing that help is not available. Shudder. Makes for great reading and cinema, though. Joe Simpson's 'Touching the Void' comes to mind. Another of his books, 'This Game of Ghosts' is highly recommended.
Edit: Oh, and btw, Mr. Simpson is the grandmaster of coming back from injuries and having another go.
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Coach Bill