Has anyone here ridden the Blue Ridge Parkway
All (469miles) or at least some? I'd like to pick your brain for info like fitness level, training schedule, nutrition, was the ride harder than expected? Did someone follow you in a car? How long did it take? That sort of stuff.
Any recommended books or websites for training info? I'm pretty sure there isn't a "Couch to 5k" version for biking the BRP. 
I am exploring the idea of riding the Parkway. I'd like to make it a fundraiser for a good cause. And I'd love to be able to do it in September or October of this year or late Spring 2012. But I prefer Sept/Oct. 
Thanks in advance for any advice!
____________________________________
2008 Ruby Elite
2012 Tricross Elite