First ever Circuit Race

So I am sat now reflecting on my first ever circuit race tonight. I had been extremely nervous all day about taking part and at times was trying to think of excuses not to go along. As the start time got nearer the nervous grew even more, I can't remember the last time I felt as nervous as I did tonight. So I arrived at the circuit at 6.30 with the start time for my Category Scheduled for 7.00. Parked the car, threw the bike together & got changed. Short little cycle to the club house were I went to sign in. The alarm bells began to ring when there didn't appear to be the separate Go Race Category (beginners) as promised. The first race appeared to be full of 4th Cat riders and I was told to signing this list! :-{ out of the club house I went and began a few gentle laps to warm up with the rest of the riders. Just before 7.00 we were all brought together at the start Line around 30 - 40 riders in total. The race organiser then announced that due to only 3 of us being entered into the Go Race category we all ride together as one group with the 4th Cats.
Couple of steady laps was complete with meet chatting to a fellow rider at the back before the pace kicked up. As soon as this happened I found it hard to move up the group with everyone riding two abreast and no-one willing / wanting to give up a wheel to let me in. People soon began to find this tough and dropped off the back. I soon followed. I started to kick though and began over taking riders infront as I desperately tried to get back onto the main field.
I soon realised this was not going to happen & began to ride my own race aim to pass riders as they found themselves dropped also. I spent the majority of the race alone chasing & as I passed people they began to latch on to me but not willing to do any work themselves. When they did come through I found the pace too slow, especially now as the race progressed & the lead riders were gaining to take a lap. A comment from another rider told me to work with them and we may hold the lap off a bit longer, however their pace seemed too slow & once again I found myself pulling away alone! Eventually 4 laps from the end the inevitable happened and I was lapped. I found this slightly demoralising however I continued on & finished the race. Overall I think I am happy after tonight. I believe I ended up racing against some very good cyclists.
Positives for me are: that I didn't finish last, & no where near last. I now have more of an idea what to expect & nerves have now been replaced by excitement for next week. I know I must ride towards the front of the group if I am to stay there.

Negatives are: chasing out of corners from the back are no fun!
I can't help but feel a little annoyed as though I could of given more as I don't feel that tired. I don't feel as tired or aching as I do after my long weekend rides at a steady pace!

Overall though a fantastic experience & learning curve & I can't wait for next week!

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