One thing you have going for you as far as weight loss is muscle mass since you are a power lifter. All that muscle should burn some serious calories. I don't see anything wrong with trying to lose some weight before the race as long as you take care to eat enough protein so you don't lose too much muscle. I started the season heavy and have lost about 2 lbs per week. It has hurt my power on the straights, though I feel much lighter on the hills.