Strategy for the 2013 Maxi Enduro

I won't bore you with my more detailed plans for the Maxi, such as food, equipment, etc.  They haven't changed much from last year's plans, which can be found here:
http://andrewendurancecycling.blogspot.co.nz/2012/11/strategy-for-maxi.html

However, you may be interested in my game plan.  In summary, it's about pacing, positive attitude, and relaxed riding style.  Here it is:

Throughout race:

• Meet Helen every hour
• Bottle of Perpeteum and bottle of water each stop
• No stopping in Taupo
• Stops to be fast
• No rest stops planned, but be flexible on that
• Helen to monitor me.  Also to take notes for future reference.
• Pacing is the all-important theme of this race!

Lap 1 (Light and relaxed):

• Theme of “Light and relaxed”.  Watch style/technique!
• Pacing!  Ride at a pace I mean to continue with.
• The measure off how well I do this is a genuinely cheerful “Hi” to Helen each time I see her.  If cramping, then I’m definitely failing on this!
• But be efficient – make the full 4-lap average speed as high as possible.
• Be happy!  Treat it as Sunday-drive equivalent.  Make sure I’m enjoying it.
• Easy up the hills and rollers.
• Don’t feel pressured to go fast up Kuretau and Waihi hills.
• On flats, go fast, but with easy, efficient style.
• Don’t be suckered into going fast along lake-front and through Taupo.  You’re on a Sunday jaunt!

Lap2 (Steady and efficient):

• Theme is “Steady and efficient”.
• It’s hurting now and you’re tired.  Keep a relaxed style going up the hills.  Keep mind steady and positive.
• Eat up those kilometres, enjoying the interaction with Helen along the way.
• Also enjoy the change from day to night.  Even enjoy the SH1 traffic.
• Don’t race the No. 1 highway; just an easy and steady pace.

Lap 3 (I am happy):

• Theme is “I am happy”.  I’m here because I want to be here.  I can’t think of anywhere else I would rather be.
• It’s all about achievement.  Just continue to eat up those kilometres, and do so with a smile on my face.
• Light and easy mind.  It’s great to be doing what I’m doing!
• Relax and ride through that pain and tiredness.
• Every pedal is taking me on to the next milestone.  Positivity!
• Enjoy the night.  Listen to the night sounds. 
• Celebrate people I meet.  Everyone is friendly!
• Breaks to be only for stretches, toilet, and bottle change.  Only 2-3 minutes.  If need break, stand up off the seat! 

Lap 4: (You’re a hero)

• Theme is “You’re a hero”.
• Sub-theme no. 1 is “Act like a hero then … and race!”  Look like the athlete I am!
• Sub-theme no. 2 is “Acknowledge and feed off all the praise and support I will get.  This is the celebration lap!”
• The final lap is one of other people – talk to them; accept their praise; interact with them; encourage them in their own efforts; enjoy their company.
• Show off!  And just go get that prize!!!
• But keep your mind focussed.  Remember, this is a race!
• Practically speaking, keep the food intake up and … keep hydrated!
• If possible, join bunches.  If too fast, let them go.
• Ride through the pain