Long benefit rides like that are more the rider (usually a novice weekend rider) just making it to the end in one piece. That was my goal. The over all speed was not important. It is NOT the Tour de France. LOL
A full on race bike is overkill for most riders. They never get strong enough to make it worth buying. I think 90% of current bike sales people are way in over their head and actually leads to them giving it up. They would get more enjoyment out of a little less bike (in respect to a nice relaxed road bike verses a crit bike).