Racing Masters Catagory, should I give it a go?

[rfmullig]

I am a 51 year old and somewhat new to cycling but not new to competition. I have been considering competing ing the Masters Catagory in some local Michigan races, but I am not sure if I am ready. I don't expect to win, but I'd like to at least be competitive. I have been doing regular 25 mile rides and lately my average speeds (according to the comp)have been around 20-21mph. Is this respectable for a 51 yo? Will I get smoked in this age catagory?
Best
Robert

 

[Citius]

There's only one way to find out....

 

[HarryTheDog]

I used to race with the LVRC and a bit of TLI evening races. 23-24 mph was usual race pace, but thats in a peleton so easier. So 20-21 by yourself seems reasonable. All depends who turns up on the day, I used to find the races at the beginning of the season were easier, more newbies having a go. At the end of the season only the die hards were left. I used to find the more people who turned up the easier it was. Skive to survive was my motto. Are you in a club, how do you measure up agains the other vets?
Turn up have a go, as @Citius said there is only one way to find out.

 

[zizou]

From what i gather in the US you might be better off starting with cat 5 races as those are geared towards beginners. The masters are likely to be experienced racers, some of whom may have been elite or even pros back in the day, so might actually be faster than the cat 5 races.

However this will vary from state to state,, best joining a club and learning the ropes there it will also help you judge how fit you are relative to your peers

 

[rfmullig]

Thanks for the input.