Congrats! Sounds like your first race experience was very successful, both from a finishing and a motivational perspective.

Pre-riding a course is often very beneficial, but not always practical. I have gone into multiple MTB races not knowing the course. I don't find this necessarily to be an issue for me.

I have also been on the line waiting to start, in the pouring rain, at 40 degrees, and freezing. Whatever your inclination is, DO NOT OVERDRESS! Once you got going, I'm sure you were fine without the windbreaker and toe warmers, yes? For me, if I overdress, I end up having to work harder, and am incredibly uncomfortable the entire time. Even in the rain at 40 degrees, I don't race in a jacket - ever. That day was shorts, base layer, long sleeve jersey and leg warmers. It has taken me a REALLY long time to learn this.

Keep practicing, and great job out there!

SheFly