Do you think it’s better to try to take the lead and keep it in an XC race, or is it better to stay back on the leaders tail for most of the race? I was wondering what people on here prefer and the advantages to each.
Do you think it’s better to try to take the lead and keep it in an XC race, or is it better to stay back on the leaders tail for most of the race? I was wondering what people on here prefer and the advantages to each.
In dual, tri or quad meets, it is not abnormal for someone to lead from start to finish. The bigger the meet, the less likely a runner will lead every step of a XC race.
The flatter and faster a course is, the better it is to follow. The hillier and curvier, the better it is to lead.
if you believe that you got the speed(wheels) at the end of the race then try and follow.
if you don't have the wheels you should try to lead as soon as you can and throw down your hammer!
My XC fortunes changed dramatically once I went out hard. Basically overnight I went from a mid-packer to a front-runner and frequent winner.
I found that IF I went out hard and was in it, I'd be in it. If I was too far back I'd lose interest and not be competitive. You have to be in it to win it. This doesn't quite answer your question, but when in doubt, lead it out.
Stay in front till you can't or you finish.