problem..... please help!!!!!

i have the pc version of ffvii and am having a problem!!

ive got to the point on disc1 where u have to race the chocobos to get out of the desert prison... all is ok untill i have to start the race.
u get 1 last chance to go thru the controls then when thats over the screen fades to black..... the chocobo music is playing but nothing loads!! my computer doesnt even make an attempt to do anything and im just stuck with a black screen!!!

please can any help me!! this is doing my head in!!

thanks

adam

oh... and im running windows XP

Instead of posting twice in a row, use the edit button. -kikimm