my first race next weekend

[Aramei]

I'm doing my first ever mountain bike race next weekend (first race ever also..don't road ride)

My question is that it is also a 12 hour race and I will be doing the 3 hour race which won't start till later that day, but due to the fact that my BF will be doing the 12 hour I gotta hang around all day till my time to race.

I am wondering what I should be doing all day while waiting. What should I be eating, Should I do a few short rides just to warm up during the day. Or will that wear me out?

THANKS...

NEW RIDER,
CHRISTINE

[bikerchick68]

yikes I just saw this today but am now wondering how your first race went? sorry no one responded to help... I only make it in here sorta hit and miss... anyway, hope your race was a positive experience!

[han-grrl]

Sorry this is so late but...

race day eating

1) don't eat anything "new to you" on race day. yep comfort foods
2) try not to eat anything spicy
3) stay hydrated.
4) try to stay off your feet until you are ready to warm up.
5) make sure you get a good meal 4 hours before racing, don't OVERfill yourself. not too fatty, good combination of nutrients.
6) stay hydrated.
7) yes i know i said that already. but its important if you are out in the sun all day.

that's all i can think of...

Let us know how it went

Han

[Aramei]

Sorry, I didn't post about my race...oops....LOL

My 3 hour race was fun!! I did 3 5.4 mile laps, I rested in between. Took me about 45-50 minutes each lap..which was pretty great I thought.

I did go pretty slow, but the trail was full of rocks, tree roots, downhills with tree roots and rocks, steep falls with rock/roots....WOW!!!

BUT I managed to go through it without falling. Was a bit scary sometimes, but I did it!!!

My boyfriend told me that this was a hard course (with the rocks and roots and all) and I did great!!

It wasn't all about speed, I was just into it to see what I could accomplish.

So proud of myself when I was done that I cried!

Now, my next real race is this Sunday. A 10 mile course. Just hoping that I don't get run over by everyone passing me..

I had a guy at the 3 hour race pass me and as he went by asked me if I was racing, he even looked back to see if I had a number plate...ugh!!

[SadieKate]

It wasn't all about speed, I was just into it to see what I could accomplish.

So proud of myself when I was done that I cried!

Good for you! It's like putting your toe in the water. I cry from happiness and exultation also. Sounds like a great goal.

I had a guy at the 3 hour race pass me and as he went by asked me if I was racing, he even looked back to see if I had a number plate...ugh!!

What I'd like to say is not printable and against the rules of the forum. It would be interesting to see if he is ever thinking about a coaching or teaching career.

[CorsairMac]

wooohoo ara - way to go!.......and good on you for finishing!! sounds like the race bug has bit ya hun!!......keep us posted!