I'd have to say that most of the organized rides out there are rides, not races. If you're looking for a race, there are women here who are very involved in the racing world both as racers and as coaches, so I'm sure they could steer you towards the racing world if this is where you want to go.

There are club rides in most areas where the pace is specified. That is, the group will specify how long the ride is, and how fast they will go. But these are usually their "normal" rides.

As far as organized centuries or charity rides go, obviously you should pick one that covers the distance that interests you. And then you should set your own goal for time. Don't get caught up in competing with other people on the ride - most of them are there to ride their own ride as opposed to race.

In fact, I had an interesting experience on a 2-day MS ride many years ago (before I stopped participating in group rides!). A co-worker asked if she could ride with me. I told her yes, but I also told her that I didn't think she'd be happy with my pace since I'm a relatively slow rider. She started with me, and then joined up with some faster riders (which I encouraged her to do). At the end of the day it turned out she was pretty upset because I finished the ride (100 miles) about an hour & a half before she did. The reason? I stopped quickly at the rest stops to grab more water & food & use the porta-potties. Then I hopped back on my bike and kept riding. She stopped and just hung out talking at each of the rest stops. Classic tortoise & hare...

Have fun on whatever ride you decide to do.

--- Denise