Makbike, according to a friend of mine, the ride from the hotels (or at least the Drury) is a little dark, but otherwise okay. There are lots of other people doing it so there's at least a little strength in numbers. He and his friends leave the Drury at 6:15. If you ride to the start line, you're essentially doing the course backwards, which puts you according to him at the front of the line.
Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Continue to learn. Appreciate your friends. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is.
--Mary Anne Radmacher