Originally Posted by
Hermes
As you look for racing clubs, find one that offers a novice program with a coach. IMO, one of the most beneficial aspects of training for mass start races is the skill sets of cornering, sprinting and practicing at speeds that are representative at a race. Good luck.
I've looked at the local clubs and the Century Road Club Association looks like they're strong on training rookies. I'm planning to work over the next year and try to race in the Central Park crit races in 2024. In the Training Peaks Power Profile, only my 20 minute interval is in the Cat 5 level, so, umm, probably not skipping an entry level.