Social anxiety kicking my a** and wanting to practice/race.

JK BRO
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Edited Date/Time 5/17/2022 12:04pm
Never been good at OP's, just looking for some advice.

I tried some local mx racing in my 20s. Practice was fun, but my first race 5th lap in, I went otb on a table and was out cold on the track. The more I thought about it, I was fatigued and should have pulled off. Furthermore, I was out classed by a lot of riders in that race. I took a friends advice and just signed up for the same class he was in. I think it was C class

Here I am a 39yo.... almost 40 dad/husband wanting to get back out and enjoy a little competition. My problem is now I'm beyond nervous and my social anxiety is really kicking my ass.

Any advice for getting back out there? What class should I be riding?
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Hammer 663s
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Forest Grove, OR, USA
5/10/2022 11:17am
Look up the Sierra Chapter OTHG. Good group, safe, focus is on fun and going to work on Monday. They will eval you for 2 races then place you where you fit in. Way, way safer than any public series and they run on all the best NorCal tracks.

Hammer 663s
29
Gilby122
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5/10/2022 11:17am
Amazing how this sport can grab hold! Laughing I think you jump in a vet class and simply go ride your race.

I've always been impressed with the pros and the pain and injuries they can endure and then hop back on the bike and ride like stuff never happened. I've been life flighted, broken all the ribs more than once, been asleep on the track twice, and am three weeks out from reattaching my bicep to my arm...and all I really want to do is get behind the gate again.

Every time I line up, I feel like puking and ask why I put myself through the anxiety (my wife questions if I even really enjoy it Laughing ) But when the race day is done, I never feel better or more accomplished than I do loading my trailer and driving home. Doesn't matter if I won the Vet B, got my ass kicked, or won a few bucks in the 40 pro. Just getting behind the gate and competing gives an adrenaline dump like nothing else I do or have done. Greatest feeling there is and I couldn't get it playing golf or whatever else "older" guys are supposed to do.

Jump in with both feet and just go have fun. Easier said than done if you're competitive, but gotta start somewhere!!
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wisey
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Mission Viejo, CA, USA
5/10/2022 11:21am
Don’t be nervous
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10
5/10/2022 11:22am
I second what Hammer said. You're in a good area, a lot of good dudes in Northern California. It's a pretty relaxed moto scene if you find the right group. OTHG guys are good people.
Zeb also runs his races (and practice days) REALLY well, so that will help your confidence knowing the guy running things cares about the riders and not just the bottom line.
DM me, I hit the practice days when it works with my schedule and I'd be happy to meet you out at Riverfront or PC for a practice day to help get your confidence back up before you race again.
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The Shop

5/10/2022 11:22am
Go for it bro. Just sign up for 40+ your close enough. I,m getting stuff ready to race and haven’t in 20 yrs. Last race I fractured my femur, freak accident. I,m 55 just bought. 2 hr 04cr125. Last yr I bought a 04 and a 05. My 3 125,s where stolen 4-13. I,m racing the 125 class also, I,ll b racing fathers and there sons. Haha the only 04cr125 on the gate in the country probably .
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LungButter
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Yellow Pine, ID, USA
5/10/2022 11:29am
Maybe consider finding some local off road races and try those. Typically lower stress and more fun than the moto scene, you also get more bang for your buck when it comes to riding time.

I'd also hit up those Vet races they are talking about, takes the edge off when everybody has a more mature mind set.

Just remember, it's FUN!!

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5/10/2022 11:31am
Go for it bro. Just sign up for 40+ your close enough. I,m getting stuff ready to race and haven’t in 20 yrs. Last race I fractured my femur, freak accident. I,m 55 just bought. 2 hr 04cr125. Last yr I bought a 04 and a 05. My 3 125,s where stolen 4-13. I,m racing the 125 class also, I,ll b racing fathers and there sons. Haha the only 04cr125 on the gate in the country probably .
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JK BRO
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Oroville, CA, USA
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5/10/2022 11:40am
Really appreciate the replies fellas. These positive posts help the mindset.

Appreciate the group recommendation @Hammer, already checking it out.


My nearest tracks are in Marysville, CA. Thanks for the invite @Nathaniel, it'd be great to have someone to ride with.



Props again for the positive vibes. Makes me want to get back out there!
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Zycki11
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Edwardsville, IL, USA
5/10/2022 11:43am Edited Date/Time 5/10/2022 11:44am
Just enjoy the time on your bike and don’t put pressure on yourself to perform. Be a kid again and do it because you love it
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Thirteen-II
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Manteca, CA, USA
5/10/2022 12:32pm
In the same boat, man! If you ever want to talk about anxiety, please don't hesitate to message me!
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5/10/2022 12:37pm
Also if you ever get anxiety because you think the guys at the track are judging you, just look at the replies on this thread man.

Moto guys may threaten violence on the internet if you disagree about Christian Craig, but those same dudes will fall over each other trying to help when it comes to REAL LIFE stuff 😂🍻
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kNewc
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USA
5/10/2022 12:44pm Edited Date/Time 5/10/2022 12:47pm
I have bad social anxiety but it never stops me from going to the track. It's harder for me to talk to acquaintances then to go ride.
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KurtJ99
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5/10/2022 1:32pm
Yes, getting back into it can cause alot of anxiety. Thinking about crashing and getting hurt can be overwhelming.
After some non-moto related surgeries on femur, tibia over two year, I had a hard time overcoming that fear.
I can only recommend - take it slow. Build on each ride. Don't jump a double or tabletop when you don't feel ready. When you are ready - you'll jump what you need to jump and not need to worry about it.

The Sierra Old Timers / OTHG is a great place to start. Not worrying about junior jumping over your head or ramming you in the corners in practice.

Make some peace with yourself on how you are going to live your life. Most action sports involve some risk to get the enjoyment you are seeking. Figure out how to bound that risk by riding within your skill level.
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5/10/2022 1:36pm
Zycki11 wrote:
Just enjoy the time on your bike and don’t put pressure on yourself to perform. Be a kid again and do it because you love it
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s asking 4,200 I,m sure he,ll come down . I promise you’ll never wash the front end out, handling is amazing. There’s other 50 + riders racing the kids in the 125 class. Most racing fun you could have.


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Bruce372
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5/10/2022 1:52pm
Bay area, or Sierra oTHG. Good news is, you can practise at the same tracks you race.

Argyll and mmx Sand are good tracks to get back into it. I am at argyll most weekends, you are welcome to come out and ride with us and try our 125 or 450.

I strongly disagree that 125s are good vet beginner bikes, 350 are so easy to ride when getting back into it.
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Falcon
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Menifee, CA, USA
5/10/2022 1:59pm
I have a mild case of SAD also, but it doesn't affect me at all with my helmet on. I just don't talk to anybody on the starting gate and I wear my goggles if I feel uncomfortable. Especially back in my faster days, knowing I was a threat to win really helped - I felt like the man to beat, not the guy everyone was looking down on. Just race the slowest class you qualify for and then move up if it's too easy.
Maybe ease into the racing thing by attending some practice days. Just ride the track with other riders for a while.

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1
bichwolf
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Emerald Isle, NC, USA
5/10/2022 2:04pm
Anxiety is a bitch.
Don't race on a track that has a ton of jumps.
Jump for show...corner for dough..

Have you ever raced in the woods? You get a TON more seat time, one start and it's fun as hell. Good way to get back into riding MX as well.

Best of luck!
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1
Moto520
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Schaumburg, IL, USA
5/10/2022 2:05pm
JK BRO wrote:
Never been good at OP's, just looking for some advice. I tried some local mx racing in my 20s. Practice was fun, but my first race...
Never been good at OP's, just looking for some advice.

I tried some local mx racing in my 20s. Practice was fun, but my first race 5th lap in, I went otb on a table and was out cold on the track. The more I thought about it, I was fatigued and should have pulled off. Furthermore, I was out classed by a lot of riders in that race. I took a friends advice and just signed up for the same class he was in. I think it was C class

Here I am a 39yo.... almost 40 dad/husband wanting to get back out and enjoy a little competition. My problem is now I'm beyond nervous and my social anxiety is really kicking my ass.

Any advice for getting back out there? What class should I be riding?
Social anxiety? see a therapist. They will point you in the right direction. It's so normal......keep your mental health in check and get on top of it like an injury! For motocross only? warm up a shit ton before your race. Get yourself pre-fatiqued and see if that helps you.

I hope to see that you kept at it!
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JK BRO
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5/10/2022 2:23pm
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s...
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s asking 4,200 I,m sure he,ll come down . I promise you’ll never wash the front end out, handling is amazing. There’s other 50 + riders racing the kids in the 125 class. Most racing fun you could have.


I love 125's. 03' CR125 sent me otb and started/ended my racing career all on the same day. Wasn't the bikes fault tho.

Here's what I ride now.



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slowoldman
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Location
Wendell, NC, USA
5/10/2022 2:35pm
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s...
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s asking 4,200 I,m sure he,ll come down . I promise you’ll never wash the front end out, handling is amazing. There’s other 50 + riders racing the kids in the 125 class. Most racing fun you could have.


JK BRO wrote:
I love 125's. 03' CR125 sent me otb and started/ended my racing career all on the same day. Wasn't the bikes fault tho. Here's what I...
I love 125's. 03' CR125 sent me otb and started/ended my racing career all on the same day. Wasn't the bikes fault tho.

Here's what I ride now.



I have anxiety just thinking about being able to hold on to that beast. no LOL. 🙈
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Tbteam
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Ormond Beach, FL, USA
5/10/2022 3:14pm
Treat the first few races as though they're not a race. just a really fun practice session with a bunch of friends. Wherever you comfortably finish, you finish!
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Bruce372
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5/10/2022 3:24pm Edited Date/Time 5/10/2022 3:25pm
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s...
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s asking 4,200 I,m sure he,ll come down . I promise you’ll never wash the front end out, handling is amazing. There’s other 50 + riders racing the kids in the 125 class. Most racing fun you could have.


JK BRO wrote:
I love 125's. 03' CR125 sent me otb and started/ended my racing career all on the same day. Wasn't the bikes fault tho. Here's what I...
I love 125's. 03' CR125 sent me otb and started/ended my racing career all on the same day. Wasn't the bikes fault tho.

Here's what I ride now.



I am out of the county right now, come on out to argyll ina couple of weeks, I think a lot of anxiety can be helped when yiu hang out with a good group of people.
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spimx
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Location
Port Isabel, TX, USA
5/10/2022 3:39pm
Why do you have social anxiety. You can literally ask a grown man for his phone number after 5 min of knowing each other and it's not gay. That is literally the bond of MX racers especially if you ride a 2t. Text me anytime after we have known each other 5 min asking if I want to carpool to the track and the answer is yes as long as I have time off from work and family.
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Bruce372
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USA
5/10/2022 3:46pm
spimx wrote:
Why do you have social anxiety. You can literally ask a grown man for his phone number after 5 min of knowing each other and it's...
Why do you have social anxiety. You can literally ask a grown man for his phone number after 5 min of knowing each other and it's not gay. That is literally the bond of MX racers especially if you ride a 2t. Text me anytime after we have known each other 5 min asking if I want to carpool to the track and the answer is yes as long as I have time off from work and family.
This is it, we all struggle with everything going on these days. Once you hang out with people and you realize many others are struggling, it takes the sting out of things and you realize how normal you are.
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JK BRO
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Oroville, CA, USA
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5/10/2022 4:31pm Edited Date/Time 5/10/2022 4:34pm
Tbteam wrote:
Treat the first few races as though they're not a race. just a really fun practice session with a bunch of friends. Wherever you comfortably finish...
Treat the first few races as though they're not a race. just a really fun practice session with a bunch of friends. Wherever you comfortably finish, you finish!
10-4, this is a good mindset to be in. I'd just like to finish a race at this point. Even last would feel like an accomplishment.


And I appreciate all the replies from everyone, I'm always grateful when someone takes their time to help me out.
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Dirt.Squirt
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The Low-Dez, OR, USA
5/10/2022 8:07pm Edited Date/Time 5/10/2022 8:08pm
You first have to identify what is causing that anxiety then face it head on. Exposure therapy works!
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5/11/2022 9:45am
Zycki11 wrote:
Just enjoy the time on your bike and don’t put pressure on yourself to perform. Be a kid again and do it because you love it
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s...
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s asking 4,200 I,m sure he,ll come down . I promise you’ll never wash the front end out, handling is amazing. There’s other 50 + riders racing the kids in the 125 class. Most racing fun you could have.


The only anxiety you will ever hv after getting the 04 in Henderson is the starter holding the gate. You know those extra long 7 seconds they hv for 125 races because everyone Loves that sound.



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1
Zycki11
Posts
7831
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4/1/2008
Location
Edwardsville, IL, USA
5/11/2022 11:10am
Zycki11 wrote:
Just enjoy the time on your bike and don’t put pressure on yourself to perform. Be a kid again and do it because you love it
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s...
Buy a 125 there’s another below 10 hrs 04 cr125 on fb in Henderson Nevada. I thought about getting it shipped. Go get it he ,s asking 4,200 I,m sure he,ll come down . I promise you’ll never wash the front end out, handling is amazing. There’s other 50 + riders racing the kids in the 125 class. Most racing fun you could have.


The only anxiety you will ever hv after getting the 04 in Henderson is the starter holding the gate. You know those extra long 7 seconds...
The only anxiety you will ever hv after getting the 04 in Henderson is the starter holding the gate. You know those extra long 7 seconds they hv for 125 races because everyone Loves that sound.



Congrats on the steed, Honda 125's are not my favorite haha.
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5/11/2022 11:20am
Thx sounds odd but I feel like I won a big championship just finding the bike. Haha
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