Jostling is a very risky tactic on this track, but you may not always have a choice. If a larger opponent is determined to crash into you, slow down just enough the let them pass, then try to draft behind them. The resulting boost might be enough to knock them off the track. If you choose to initiate a jostle, choose your target wisely. Picking a fight with an evenly matched racer may do nothing more than slow both of you down.
A Banana works well in any unfenced turn, but consider dropping them near dash panels. These tempting targets are difficult to resist, and overeager opponents are likely to hit them.
Don’t shy away from the item boxes at the end of section 2. If you’re lagging behind at this point, a powerful item is your best chance to get back in the race.
If you exit the tube without hitting a glide panel, you can still get through the area very quickly. Take advantage of the dash panels and golden rings on your way into the last stretch. Boost past nearby opponents for a chance to jostle them off the track, and try to gain some ground as you drift through the final turns.