I too am agaist the Ageist thing.
Although I have never had the guts to take up road racing, I started Motocross just before I was 55.
After a slow start with me messing around and gaining points because I did not fall off too much, I really got the bug and soon was topping the Novice Class. I was doing well in the Intermediate until one leg and both ankles broken slowed me down a we bit. Well, I could not get my boots on.
I was mixing it with 18 to 30 year olds, and became the target to beat.
I think that age does have a moderating effect and the brain stops you (mostly) from exceeding your natural ability.
Even the youngest, fittest, fastest guys get it a bit wrong sometimes.
Mike, 2007 sees my "official" retirement year, being a 1942 war baby, etc. Maybe I will have more time to take up road racing. Can you get a discount on entry fees if you produce a pension book (if they are still in being then)?