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Did round 4 of the southern xc series over the weekend on a bit of a whim. Having not raced for many many years two things really caught me by surprise.
First thing is they don't half start quick. Getting there early, riding the course before the race, and doing a proper warm up is the right thing to do. Rocking up a few minutes before the start and doing a few quick stretches was a very bad plan. Getting on a bit now so really can't go that quick from a cold start!
Second thing is how weird it is to ride in a tightly packed bunch. Really not use to having riders right up my arse, very offputting. Riding close behind other riders is quite tricky too and I kept finding myself dropping back to leave a gap, then being overtaken! Think close racing will take some getting use to.
It's a bit intimidating turning up and seeing a fairly small field of riders all in team jerseys, all looking quite serious, some warming up on turbo trainers. It was still good fun though and I'll definitely give it another go but hopefully be a bit more prepared next time!