Herne Hill Saturday Training

I find it helpful to look a few riders ahead of me, anticipating any potential slowdowns or acceleration and adjusting my speed gradually. For example knowing when slower riders are taking turns at the front. It was a little frustrating at times today but not dangerous at all.

Good observation is very important, it helps you ride more safely, but also helps you save energy. Like you say it's much better to look a few riders ahead of you or towards the line, and reacting to changes in pace before they reach you, rather than staring at the person in front and have to react suddenly.

Anyone thinking of racing who hasn't tried it yet should come along to the Go-Race novice racing on 27th April in the afternoon. You will be racing with other first-time racers so it won't be quite as intense. I'll try to get more details up soon, but it'll be a similar price to the training sessions and you can enter on the day (just turn up like you would for training). Arrive just before 2pm, warm up on the track from 2, the first races will be at 2.30pm. /You do not need a racing licence or need to be a member of a club to take part.
http://www.hernehillvelodrome.com/racing_events/track_racing/calendar_and_results/

New for this year there is also a C category in track league, which will be easier than the Bs - if you can keep up with the intermediate session you'll have no problem at all http://www.hernehillvelodrome.com/racing_events/track_racing/track_league/index.html

Race training on monday nights is also a good bet for you to get the idea of what racing is like.