jbenkert111

I am 74. Will be racing in a 40+ beginner class. 1 lap of about 5 mi's. Location is Patapsco St Park in MD. I am told it is a moderately tough course (have ridden in the area a couple of times) I am riding a 26" HT Marin, a decent low end bike ($500). I have been riding road and MTB's for about a year. I have been running competitive road races for many years so I have some sense of racing competitively.

Would appreciate any tips.

nacler22

Pre-ride the course if possible.

Holeshots can be important, but it might be wise to let the kids duke it out, and just settle into your pace at the gun.

Short race means no need to worry about nutrition, just one bottle should cover fluids.

Smooth is fast.

Grin lots.



Good Luck.

jbenkert111

With all due respect Marine: Semper Fi. I am retired army myself, Command Sergeants Major, Military Intel/Special Forces, 1989.

Thanks for tips. No Holeshot seems smart, I would probable kill myself anyway. In running I never drank for anything less then 1 hr, but hydrated well prior to. Got it on the "smooth is fast", it's the same in running. Not sure about when to grin, is that when I am being passed or should I just laugh at myself.

John

nacler22

Hooahh Sergeants Major,

Spent time with a few Army Special Forces in Desert Storm, they were some smooth operators.

Sounds like you're squared away on the nutrition, but if it's warm, a bottle ain't gonna kill ya to hump around. ymmv

If you can't find time to grin, then a grimace will do.

Have fun John.