The ride starts at sunrise so you kind of HAVE to be there before then. I think they solved the problem of the start. Last year it only took 10 minutes for us to start moving. The reason it's so slow (IMO) is because too many inexperienced riders go to the front hoping to get a "head start" and end up slowing down the more experienced riders. I wish everyone would start in the group that matches their abilities. That being said, even though it only took 10 minutes for us to start moving we still had to "skateboard" our bikes for several minutes before we could actually clip in and start pedaling.

Something else to watch out for. This goes back to inexperienced riders being in the wrong group...seems like every little incline we went up the pace almost came to a halt. There were several times I thought I was going to have to unclip for just a small rise....so be prepared for that.

The first 20 miles or so is really nerve wracking. You are shoulder to shoulder the whole way. It gets better after the 100 mile/100k split.

Good luck to everyone riding this year. Be safe! I can't wait 'till Saturday!!!