I get pretty bored riding without my iPod (one ear only) (constant scanning of mirror) on long training rides (6-8 hours) (or even 1 hour!!) but I've found that events "feel" different- I'm more tuned in to what I'm doing, even if I'm by myself- I have plenty of thoughts about the upcoming hours to occupy me. Then, in a brevet, there are usually some other people to ride with in the later hours, and in a Century, definitely lots of people to ride with. In an iron-distance race, there will be tons of other riders to watch, and stuff written on the roads, and all the spectators. I don't think you'll be bored at all!

Nanci