Real-Life Decision Making
The ability to make split-second decisions on the racecourse is what distinguishes the truly successful motocross racers. These decisions are difficult because calculating wrong can result in not only losing the race, but having a crash or another disastrous outcome.
Experienced motocross racers say the only way to learn this decision-making skill is by practicing it over and over again. Some racers use simulators to keep their reflexes sharp between races. Others keep running through a range of possible race-time scenarios in their minds, trying to decide in advance how aggressive to be on the course.
Let's suit up and get out there. Today, you are racing in front of your hometown fans. You also have a chance to move into the overall points standings lead if you win. Your bike is running better than it ever has -- which means you may not get a better chance to win.
You are following your race plan to stay in the group of the three fastest riders when, on the 18th lap out of 25, you see an opportunity to move up into the lead.
You have just a split-second to decide whether to move to the inside of the upcoming curve and try to move into the front of the pack. Already during the race, there have been three crashes on this corner, probably because of the thick mud that has gathered near the inside edge of the track.
Is this your opportunity? Will you seize it? You'd better choose quickly, because the corner is coming up.