Hi Lise & Nanci -

The Santa Cruz Randonneurs website has a good section explaining what randonneuring is all about.

http://pages.prodigy.net/scrandonneurs/whatis.html

here's an excerpt:

[...]
Randonneuring (rahn doe ner ing) is a type of long-distance cycling, not too different from a century or double-century ride. There are time limits for each distance, so it is best described as fast touring. Checkpoints along the way ensure the rider has followed the route in the prescribed time limits. If one finishes the route successfully, a numbered certificate (or brevet in French) is awarded, so these rides are often called "brevets". Riders of all abilities participate in brevets, just as happens on centuries and double-centuries. Randonneuring brevets are non-competitive events; one rides for the personal pride of having completed the distance within the time allowance, not from beating other riders to the finish line. Friendly camaraderie is a hallmark of randonneuring.
[...]

More details in the link.

Hope this helps, and perhaps piques your curiousity !
- Jo.