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I just did my first race weekend. Saturday was light rain and they cut the sprints to 6-laps each. I found that okay. Sunday came and the 8-lap regular sized sprints almost kicked my ass. Without someone in front of me, I faded fast. If I weren't used to longer track day sessions, that would have been 100x worse.
I'm also coming around on the tire warmer things. I'm one of the tight ass cheapskates likely being talked about here. I had to use warmers for races. I now wish I'd bought them and practiced using them at track days long ago. Especially at NHMS (where power is available and free) why not?!
Although half the reason for beginner and intermediate TD riders to not "hit it" right out of the gate is to get the rider up to temp, not necessarily the tires or machine.
But then having hot tires under you seems like a no-brainer. I'm not seeing the downside.
I think the prevailing guidance on this subject from TD providers is well intentioned, but less helpful for intermediates and advanced riders.