I'm going to be doing the bike leg of a relay team for a local tri this weekend. It's a women's only race. A friend of mine is doing the whole thing. She found out what my goal was for a time for the course, and she told ME she's gunning for me, and her only (new) goal is to beat my time!
So....
It's not just men.
Yes, there is a margin of trash talk.
If a guy says he's gunning for you next year, smile and say "Yeah?? Good luck. You'll need it!" And saunter way, happy in your accomplishment!