The Night Before
Keep things simple by laying out your kit, charging every device, and giving the bike a quick check for tires, brakes, and shifting to make sure nothing is wrong. You should confirm the start time, parking, and packet pickup. Set two alarms and try to get the most amount of sleep possible because being well rested and packed beats being tired and having a frantic moment.
What to pack
A small seat bag, pocket, or pack can handle the essentials: a spare tube or plugs, a mini pump or CO₂, tire levers, and a multi tool. Add your helmet, shoes, socks, and gloves, and check the forecast the day before and again in the morning so you can dress for the weather. Packing clean clothes and a towel makes the trip home more comfortable. Keep ID, a card or some cash, and any license or waiver handy, and consider taking screenshots of directions and staging maps in case service drops. Two trash bags are useful if it rains or gets muddy.
Food And Hydration
Food and hydration are very important before, during and after the race. Staying hydrated and choosing a high carb dinner the night before sets you up well. About three hours before the start, you should have 80 to 120 g of carbs such as oats, rice, or half a PB and J. An hour out, a small snack like a bar, gel, or banana keeps energy steady. During the race, snacks like gels, bars, or pretzels are easy to manage and give you the energy to finish the race. Bring enough to drink for the whole race plus something for after.
See Clearly In Any Light
The right lenses make a noticeable difference. For rides that span changing conditions from morning into afternoon, photochromic or Fototec lenses are convenient because they lighten in shade and darken in sun, saving a lens swap mid race. If you prefer fixed lenses, simply match the tint to the day’s light. Shop at Tifosi Optics if you are looking for a good pair of cycling glasses.
Before and after
Arriving 60 to 90 minutes early usually keeps the day relaxed, and if it is allowed, a roll through the start and first turn can help you feel better. A warmup of 15 to 25 minutes is typically plenty. Once everything feels right, head to staging. After the race you should do a short 5-to-10-minute cool down spin. Get some water, a snack, and change into clean clothes to make the ride home better. Jotting a few quick notes about what worked and what you might adjust helps dial things in for next time.
