I won some prizes in 2005. Mostly age group (lady vet 40-45), but I was also 1st female in an ultra and a non racing prize in South Glos Sportswoman of the Year.
For me it was a case of going through the self doubt/confidence barrier. Having the courage to push myself hard in a race.
Train smart and race hard seems to be the key Steve, I'm sure you can do it.
One other thing to consider is choose your races carefully. Smaller, tougher ones will attract less competition
