need encouragement and advice on racing

[goddess1222]

in the early summer, there is a track series here at the Portland International Raceway. they close the track, and let cyclists race in the evenings. women's racing is part of the program. i timidly e mailed the organizer guy and asked some questions. he wants me to come out and try it. i asked him if there were a lot of novice women like myself who desire to race, he said there are a ton of novice women.

i want to go out there, but i am a little intimidated. (this coming from the most headstrong intimidating woman that is me). i am afraid of looking like an idiot out there, and crashing due to my inexperience.

i need some advice.............

what would all you girls do?

[Veronica]

I'd probably go and observe once to see what it was like. Just so I'd know what I was getting myself into. If it is something you have an interest in doing, you should try it. Everybody has to start somewhere.

To quote Nike "Just Do It"

Veronica

[Asa]

Do you have some friends you can ride with on a nice quiet road? "Practice" racing with them. Try riding close together at a good clip, drafting and cornering together. Racing will not feel so claustrophobic and intimidating once you are used to riding in a pack. And definately go watch! It will make you want to do it!
Asa

[goddess1222]

that is my main challenge. i don't have buddies to ride with. i would love to practice "peleton riding." hopefully, with the women i will meet at this thing, maybe they can help me out.

[Asa]

I am sure you will meet some great riding buddies at the races. One thing most female racers want is for more women to get into racing! Do you mountain bike?
Asa

[goddess1222]

i have a mountain bike that i never ride. such a shame isn't it?

[MightyMitre]

If there's going to be a lot of other novice women there then maybe you could ask about whether they do any introductory sessions, prior to the actual racing so people can get a feel for it.

I'm sure there must be other women riders in your position who'd like to try but feel a bit apprehensive, and not eveyone has got access to a big gang of cycling mates they can practise group riding with. If they haven't got an taster session maybe you could suggest it? I'm sure people would be interested.

Whatever happens I'm sure you'll love it! Let us know how it goes.