Fun at the fort. NICA Race #1

Race 1 notes from Coach Braaap.

So in retrospect... we have a young team with a need for guidance from experienced racers.

First,
Many racers complained that they started out too quickly. We need to talk about the gamesmanship of being in front. Start the race strong and get your break, letting off a little at a time while watching your back. Watch for racers looking to pass because you've slowed and pick the pace up again to keep them behind. You MUST find a way to stay in front and conserve energy. The rider in front IS doing the work.

Second,
Anxiety.. it seems to rampant, not sure why. I'm not seeing barfing and crying like we saw last year but it's there. How done calm the kids down? Is this why Faz always talked about it not mattering for freshman how they did? It seems worse with the sophomores.

Third,
Stand up! We must practice and preach the power of the magic shift. Lead riders are powering up hills with snot and spit and grunts, we are conserving energy and never hitting high gear. As coach Gerorge says.. races are won on the hills.

Thought I'd try this on here.
Thoughts from either of you on the race?

#braaap