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Definitely give it a go.
As far as I know, the Rapha Supercross is on again this year, although I think it might be at a different venue.
To answer your questions in turn;
I'd use whatever bike you're most comfortable racing on.
It depends. Last year had that hill which was unrideable, and was about a 45 second run/walk each lap, in a 6 minute lap or so. Some running training might help but if you hate it then don't bother. If you do decide to do some, make it as specific to cross as possible, so up short, sharp hills and across muddy bogs.
Everyone starts somewhere. You'll be fine in the vets race as a novice. But equally, if you want to ride the novice race then do that (free tequila!).
andyp
A few questions for you grizzled old cross racers, if I may.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Rapha Supercross last year ( course, crowds, atmosphere ) and have decided to try and get myself in some sort of fit state to have a go this year. It is an annual thing, I hope?
Three months seems a fair time to try and gain some fitness and so I was wondering..
I'm more used to riding ( not racing ) a mountain bike; would I be better off using my Surly Straggler, once I've swapped tyres, removed bottle cages, mudguards etc and become used to riding that off road. I'd be riding SS, so would gear accordingly for either bike ( about 60gi? ).
Should I incorporate some running into my training? I hate running, but from what I've seen, you can't avoid a little bit in cross.
Should I enter the novice race, or would a first-timer be ok in another category? I suspect I qualify as a vet now and the idea of a 'first time vet racer' seems a little odd to my mind. My bike handling skills aren't too terrible, so I don't think I'd be crashing into everyone :-)
Cheers
Pete