Hey Clint, I am sorry about the pics this morning. I completely forgot, until I got to work this afternoon. I will send them out in a little over 2 hours when I get home, even though it looks like you may have done it. As far as racing goes, it depends how long it is, so say at the minimum it is a 50 mile loop, which means probably a good hour and a half (all depending on the type of track, if it is tight woods, hills, this or that) to two hours. So whether you gun it off the bat or not depends on some things. How in shape are you? This isn't like trail riding, this is one of the best work outs ever. I try to race at about 85-90% full stamina if that makes sense. If you are really in shape, then try to get them off the line. But reading the website, this looks easy on body campared to straight races like I do. I mean one lap, then lunch, then another lap. I definately wouldn't eat anything heavy during the lunch, and take a camel back with you of some sort, drink plenty of water, and have fun. According to that the first 5 miles are wide open, so i would def try to work up the pack, but just remember if you get infront of some of the other classes to have some class etiqute. They should say something to you if they are right behind you, as in they aren't in your class or something. if you don't let them by, they can report you, and it can dock you spots. I know how you said once some good guy gets in front of you you're going to try to keep up, do so with all means, but remember, they are probably getting paid for this, therefore they do this all the time, and this is your first time

. Hope all this helps.