Look at the British Cycling events calendar, non ranking or Regional C
events for entry-level, races are typically in woodland. Think about
entering with a mate if it's your first race, on entry you'll receive a
confirmation email all your questions will be answered
including the race location practice and sign on times. I love cross country
mountain biking because it pushes me both mentally and physically. There's a
nice mix of technical riding and it's also great for my fitness. I can remember
my first race I was so underprepared. I've learned to pace myself a little bit
more and have a good time. I just came away with this massive sense
of wanting to do it again and want to get better. It's this easy you don't
need a super expensive all dedicated cross-country bike just a
well-maintained mountain bike, wear the kit you normally would ride in. Carry
basic spares, tube, tire levers, co2, pump and multi-tool, no need for a backpack.
Remember your helmet this is mandatory. Pack your kit bag, check your bike,
remember your tools and pump. I have porridge with some fruit and
honey and yogurt. Double check the registration times what time are the
practice laps? Arrive two hours before the practice start,
register, pick up your number board, timing chips will be attached
put your number board on, return to your car to get changed,
check your bike again. You could get one to two hours of practice time be careful
not to burn out, look out for interesting course features, watch other riders, look
at the lines they take. I recommend to a first-time racer to practice up to about
an hour before your race. I would only do one lap and actually maybe not even a
lap but it depends on how fit you are the best way to learn is to watch people.
On return to your car put on some warm and dry kit, perhaps your tire pressure
will need tweaking, eat something, drink something, leave enough time to digest a
snack, stay well hydrated. I like to have a gel about 15 minutes before the race and
depending on the weather conditions about 500 ml of water per hour.
Keep warm, do a warm-up ride 20 to 30 minutes before your race starts. Arrive at
the start early. Don't rely on there being a call up for your race. Now is a
good time to have a gel, usually there won't be pre-allocated grid positions
it's first-come first-serve, start at the back if you're nervous, listen to the
commissaires rider briefing, don't miss out on hearing any last-minute course
changes. 12 p.m. Don't set off too fast, relax,
save something for the last lap. Be aware of your surroundings and faster
riders it's common to get lapped. Hold your racing line unless safe to
move over avoid unexpected movements and ride predictably. Faster riders should be
prepared to leave the racing line to overtake.
I like the thrill of mountain biking I also, really enjoy racing against other
people. Forget that it's a race it's great great riding, yeah just have
fun. Enjoy crossing the finish line, put on some clean warm clothing, clean your
bike every race you've got to take something from it and learn and get
better for the next one and you know and the quality of racing is improving every
time so that's right it just means that the bar's been set higher and yeah it's
really good. Prepare for the podium presentation
and if you want to be in shape to ride again recover well.