just taking a survey

[Artisan]

What type or racing and what level if applicable?
Mostly road racing, I haven't done a crit yet, I want to make sure I'm really good at cornering before I enter into it. I've done mtb but I prefer the road. I've done a few time trials and would love to get "yet another bike" for that. I'm cat 4.

Why do you race?
Huh?!, I wish I knew... Prior to each race I work myself up so much, think to myself I must be crazy to put myself through this, do I actually need to add all this extra stress to my life purposely? But after each race weekend I feel like I've overcome so much, concured my fears and accomplished another goal that I set for myself. The camaraderie with my teammates is a top reason as well. We always have so much fun and the memories are priceless.

When did you start?
I started this year, Prior I had only done two time trials.

How well do you feel supported in this journey?I would not be able to race if it were not for my LBS, they have helped me out tremendously. The club that I belong to is supportive but the women's team could get more support....We are working on that. My husband is great, we only do about one ride together per week anymore because our training is so different, he is still faster than me, but I'm catching up quickly. I train alot with the other gals on my team.

What would make your journey better?
Haha, total sponsership!

How do you train...plan, just ride or coach?
I go by a plan, I should be more strict but I've not put myself into it that seriously yet. We have a few coaches in our club that sometimes go on rides with us and give their input. Some of the girls have coaches, I don't but I've put some thought into it.

[Eden]

I decided to go with a coach this year. My first year I really didn't know what to expect, so I just trained with the team and went out to see what I could do. Now, somewhat unexpectedly, that I find myself doing well I thought I would need help and focus to go further. My training this year has been less time but more intensity and I think that it is paying off. My coach is also a teamate of mine which helps too.

[li10up]

Very interesting...

How would someone interested in road racing go about starting? I've never heard about any here (central Texas) other than mtn bike racing.

I might be interested in doing this...

[missymaya]

This has been a very interesting and great thread to read. I've been very interested in doing some time trials and road races but a few things are getting in my way. First, I don't know where to begin, how to train, or any teams to join or any info on racing. Secondly, I'm in the middle of grad school, so time and money is of the essence for a little while. But, I think I would really enjoy racing and I'm trying to gather info on racing. Any suggestions?

[RoadRaven]

This has been a very interesting and great thread to read. I've been very interested in doing some time trials and road races but a few things are getting in my way. First, I don't know where to begin, how to train, or any teams to join or any info on racing. Secondly, I'm in the middle of grad school, so time and money is of the essence for a little while. But, I think I would really enjoy racing and I'm trying to gather info on racing. Any suggestions?

Hey there Missy... I started a time trial thread just for us interested in that to put tip and tricks regarding that.

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=12489

I also suggest you get some books outta the library - good road racing authors are Joe Friel, Gale Bernhardt and someone else I can't remember the name of.

Also check out cycling mags whenever you can - they usually have 2-3 "tips for racing" articles - like how to climb hills and not get dropped, or increasing your strength/speed on the flat, or how to get your thinking right before a race and so forth.

If you can, find out about local clubs/rides - go to a bike shop and ask. Often these groups of people can be a great source of wisdom and motivation.

Looking forward to seeing you start some of your own ride threads

[Eden]

Here are a few more threads in which I've previously written up everything I could think of about beginning racing.

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showt...t=start+racing

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showt...t=start+racing

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showt...t=start+racing

[RoadRaven]

I fully endorse these threads... Eden writes in a clear and interesting way that makes sense for someone just coming to terms with the ideas and jargon associated with racing.

She also has some great experience and race wisdom she is able to share /has shared with us as she has raced a variety of types of races...

[Artisan]

Very interesting...

How would someone interested in road racing go about starting? I've never heard about any here (central Texas) other than mtn bike racing.

I might be interested in doing this...

Not sure exactly where you are, but there are a few women's teams that I know of that are from Austin and San Antonio. You don't have to be on a team to race and you can get a one day license if you want to just try it out.

To find out where the races are in texas check the bikereg site. Once there click on the road races link up top, choose south central..then texas. It will list all the road races in texas for you.

The address is www.bikereg.com

Good luck and have fun!