Tip of the Month - Having a Perfect Start

Early in my racing career, I realized that the start was one of the most important parts of the race. Having a good start will make the difference between getting out in front of all the other riders and riding your own race or having to battle through the pack to achieve the same position. Here are a few tips to practice this coming month. Before your race comes up watch a few starts – find a good line, check out the starter and watch how the gate falls. Then it is time to step up to the line for your race.

First of all – Be ready – clear your mind of all distracting thoughts – concentrate!

2nd - Know that you can do this! Be confident. Visualize the start – scan the first corner with your eyes and picture yourself in this spot.

Next – Keep your eyes focused on the starter – watch him carefully. Most important step – Do not look down at the gate until the board is above the starters head completely and turned sideways. Timing the last 3 seconds is crucial and must be done perfectly. Keep calm, relax and get the jump on the rider beside you.

Don’t forget use steady even throttle – the rest is history!

John

Team Manager