Some races are about proving something to yourself and doing something for yourself. Is it selfish? Yes, but who cares. You obviously can't stop them from coming if they truly want to, and when the time comes if they do you'll adapt and overcome.

I think this feeling comes and goes. Some races I go to, I envy people who have cheering squads and people to call out their name, or even friends to put their bikes next to in transition who cheer each other on as they race, or friends who put aside obligations to hang out and see you maybe 2 or 3 times over the course of a few hours (or entire day). Other races, I want to go out, be nowhere near anyone I know, be anonymous, and race for me. I have a better time because I can let go of the assumptions, expectations, and caring at all what other people think, even on a "be obligated to smile" level. That sounds kind of harsh when I say it out loud, but it's the truth.