HEY CORSAIRMAC:

You said:

"they're races and they aren't meant for beginners (or in my case never-done-beforeres) but one of these days the winds will blow in My direction..........and I'll ride cross....one of these days................."

How do you think anyone gets started racing - you have to go out and do the first timer beginner race of your life. Cyclocross series are usually pretty low key and small and probably a good place to try your first race. Find out who puts on your Albuquerque cross races and contact them to find out if they have anyone getting together to practice or show how to do cyclocross, i.e. how to get on and off your bike and do the barriers. Most people that put on races usually have something like that, go try it, ask for help, ask for more help. It's amazing what people will do for you if you are just interested!

If you can't find that out before they start racing, go to the first race and ask,ask ask.! So you come in last! Who cares? You have no idea how many times I've come in last in a race. Too many to count! Have to admit the races were all fun even if I was last!