I just ran a rest stop for a century ride today with 1200 people coming thru. Exhausting, but everyone looked happy. I have been riding for 3 years and have done 2 metric centuries. Both times I was completely wiped out by the end. I am not sure that I really need to be doing that. And perhaps you do not either. I am generally fine with 25-40 mile rides.

Still, these are fun events and they usually have lots of food and if you choose to do either of the shorter routes, you will probably have some fun. You don't need to rush, but can take your time. Most events have SAG wagons if the ride is too much. I would suggest trying the 44 mile race at a comfortable pace. It would still be a nice accomplishment.