Pete is right. Racing, unfortunately, is usually completely opposite to most SPR group riding. Not only is nobody going to help you, most people are actively trying to make things harder. Holding the wheel you want gets harder and harder in every grade. Saying that, the “don’t cross wheels” rule generally still applies in racing, as a safety measure.

Also, the distance between riders also shrinks as races get faster. It takes confidence and experience to hold your line and keep that wheel. Don’t freak out too much if you touch other riders. While it’s not ideal, it does happen but most of the time it doesn’t lead to crashes. Some people even practice touching shoulders and elbows while riding!

Your team has a great opportunity to control things in lower grades. Do as Pete says… just keep getting an SPR rider attacking. Let everyone else chase and save Janice and Laurensia for the big sprint finish!

One final thing… just cause you ladies are ladies, doesn’t mean you have to be intimidated by the MAMILS. Use the team and come out on top!