What to do????

So race season is about to start and of course I am beginning to get nervous. Last year at this time I was a newbie to mountain biking and racing. I had only been riding about 3 months and my skills very that of a true beginner. Oh, and I was still over weight, but slimming down every week. When I did the course last year I had brakes held tight as I went down hill, and only hoped I could get through the wash without getting majorily banged up or ending up walking most of it. I completed the race and was happy with how I did, and of course was hooked to do more.

This year is different. I have ridden my bike over a year now. I can go downhill without brakes and not have a panic attack--well at least not an obvious one. And I know what to expect at the race. However, knowing what to expect still does not help with what to do. There is a key element missing this year and that is Dot. Last year I tried to keep up with Dot, this year she is in the Sport division. So what do I do? How do I pace myself so I don't blow up, and yet still feel like I am being competitive? There are so many what if's as you prepare to race, and that is probably what makes me most nervous.

This is my first podium last year. I am planning on this year bringing many more smiles.