[monkeywench]

Fellow monkeys I need some help. I'll be doing my first crit on Sat. Aug. 2.
Any words of wisdom /advice to pass along?
Here's the link:
http://www.halifaxcriterium.ns.ca/index.htm

Thanks for any suggestions!

 

[Heidi]

I've never actually done a crit race, just practice ones here in San Diego that are pretty intense. I guess my advice is to stay alert and pay attention to your gearing. If you are in too easy a gear, you won't be able to kick and chase when someone makes a break - same thing with if you are in too hard of a gear. Not sure what the wind situation will be like - here it is CRUCIAL to stay in the draft as much as possible because the winds are always so strong.

Enjoy the experience and good luck!

 

[speedbump]

Stay near the front (not on the front, though ) or you will waste lots of energy sprinting out of every corner to stay in touch with the group. Good Luck!

 

[Repack]

Spend a LONG time warming up. My gf races crits, and one thing they all seem to have in common is a brake-neck (and leg and lung) pace right off the start that will quickly slow. Just stay near the front and know the pace will slow. Taking a turn pulling will get you some respect. If riders see you are willing to work with the pack, they should in turn work with you.