It takes a while getting used to the controls, but I was playing last night and it just clicked. Now I am only getting better and getting gold medals left and right.
It is good to do the speed laps and zones to get to know the track. Once you have done that continue with the races.
Beating the CPU on skilled isn't much of a problem, but elite is a challenge! I must say, this game is the best racing I found so far on the PS3. After my dissapointment with Burnout Paradise I am happy for Wipeout to fill the gap. And since I didn't play Pulse or Pure, all content is new to me. Best value for money on PSN so far.