Mastering Race Tactics: Simplify the Chaos and Take Control

03/25/2025 03:01 AM

Spring racing is in full swing across North America, bringing with it the usual pre-race nerves and tactical debates among riders. Many assume amateur racing is pure chaos, where strategy takes a back seat to brute force. But the truth is, smart tactics can make all the differenceespecially when others underestimate their importance. Whether you’re racing solo or on a team, understanding how to read the peloton, conserve energy, and time your moves can turn unpredictable races into opportunities for success. Heres how to simplify the chaos and take control of your next race.Throughout my career, reading races and team leadership became one of my biggest assets as a pro. And so, when I work with individual coaching clients and teams, their tactical approach is always a focus no matter the level of racing.Surprisingly though, I often have to do some convincing in these conversations. I hear things like, Its chaos out thereevery rider for themselves…you just have to race hard. The common implication is that while tactics matter at high levels of racing, less savvy pelotons are the Wild West, and there is not much point in planning for a specific race dynamic.Riders and teams with this attitude are missing out. The truth is almost the exact opposite; the less your competitors are thinking, the more damage you can do by following some universal tactical principles.Simplify the ChaosIve been in many long and tedious pre-race team meetings, where riders and even directors try to plan for every eventuality in...