I think you rode well. Obviously the slower group wasn't challenging you and it might be comforting but sometimes you have to push beyond those boundaries even if it means not feeling so good about yourself.

I don't know if the guy was patronizing you or not (I often get the same feeling from people when I'm upset!) but you know what you're capable of.

Is difficult to say because you're at a far upper level than I am. I do know that for me, it's all in perception. Say you're in the lower group and are in front and feel like you are incredible when you finish. You could have a higher average with the higher group and feel worse about yourself because of how you finish.

So I'd say maybe go 50/50. Ignore your demons sometimes but give yourself a break other times.