I actually had my biggest problems with the first two segments leading up to the first star.  I made it through to the second star on my first go and made it through the dash panels on my second or third go.

It's miles easier once you've done it once though, as soon as the pressure is off, it just feels easier.

p.s. if there really are 4 people "waiting for Galaxy 3" you are missing out.  It's not a Galaxy sequel but it's just about as good, but does it in it's own way.

I five-starred the game but Champion's Road was definitely the most challenging level. Like Khan said, the section with the lasers and zoom pads is the trickiest part. The tanooki suit helped me immensely.

No way; as much as I love the game, it looks much too hard for me. I'd just get frustrated, and when I get frustrated, I'm no longer having fun.