ambro

Hi -

I've been racing for a few years (still a lower Cat 4) and would like some advice on categories for an upcoming race.

I just turned 45 - so, I'm considering racing Masters 45+ CAT 1/2/3/4, rather than the CAT 4/5 so at least I'm with riders my own age. What do you think? Either way, I'll likely come in at the bottom of the pack - and that's fine - but wanted to get your opinion - especially from someone who is similar to me in age/skill.

Thanks.

Andy_K 

I pick my category based on three criteria:

1. Which category is most likely to have a few guys who I enjoy racing against?
2. Which time slot do I like best?
3. How many people are in the field?

The first item here is the most important to me. The faster racers (who manage to show up in every category) will find their way around you. Once you're out of the top 10 absolute place doesn't matter much, but if I can identify a nemesis or two who show up at the same races I do pretty often it makes the races a lot more fun. Chances are both of your choices meet that criteria, so while the other two are much less important, they often come into play.

The time slot is a personal thing, I guess. I like an early race so I can preride before the first race of the day, but I like to not be in the very first race so that I can watch a bit and see how other people handle the tricky spots. The third race of the day is my favorite, because then I can pre-ride, watch a whole race and still have time to warm-up.

With regard to field size, I don't like too few people in my race because it increases my chances of ending up off the back with nobody to race against. On the other hand, once you get over 100 people in a start group the first lap gets bogged down in a hurry.

Rumpled

If you just turned 45, you've missed a whole season of 45+ racing with CX age rules.
Andy brings up so good points to consider.
Me, I ride both each day.