Good race results seldom happen by accident. Effective racing takes some planning and preparation. One of the most often heard comments that I hear before a race is that an athlete has some reason why they don’t feel 100% ready for a top notch performance. After the race, I then hear similar comments about how certain things didn’t go as well as they could have. Often athletes are disappointed with their results, just as often without good reason.

There are several people of about the same ability in your race category that all have the goal in mind of getting a certain time at the race. Well, you can’t all have a better time than each other. However, there are certain steps that you can take to increase your chances of having a great day.

1. Be prepared physically

The best way to have a good race is to have done the appropriate volume and intensity prior to the race. That way on race day, you can banish the thoughts of whether you have done enough. You can hit the start line KNOWING you are ready. Before your taper begins is when you want to ask if you are ready, not on race day. Assuming you have adequate volume and intensity, stop thinking about it other than to say that you are as ready as you can be. During the taper, remind yourself that you are physically ready.

2. Have a race plan and stick to it

Based on your training, you probably have a good idea of what your effort level needs to be. If you have a coach, they can help determine the appropriate zone for you to be in for the race. Have that all figured out, also before you taper. Have your nutrition worked out as well, so you are confident in what works for you. Remind yourself of what pacing and nutrition worked in training. You know that it will also work on race day.

3. Be tough with distractions

If you have raced before, think of the things you may have thought about that distracted you. Did being passed by people upset you? Did you have something loose on your bike? Were your clothes comfortable? These are all things that you can avoid. Learn to not care who is passing you. Race in the planned effort zones. Get your equipment and clothing sorted out weeks before the race, so you know what works. Fix what needs fixing and then don’t give it another thought.

4. See the positive

There may be hiccups, but believing you are going to have a great day is part of what helps you actually have a great day. Try not to obsess over the time, but rather on the positive feeling of racing according to your plan. YOU are in control and you KNOW what to do. It is also important that you remember that you race for enjoyment, so soak up the joy of seeing what you are able to do that day. Relaxed mental focus will free up energy for the task at hand.

If you follow these steps, the time will take care of itself. If you race according to plan, you can be pleased with your race no matter what the time may be. I’ve seen this work with front, middle and back of the pack athletes alike.

Best of success at your next race!