BTW. TDT utilizes a series of "mass" starts. This is to spread people out a bit. I would suggest that whatever group you end up in you should try and either be in the front or in the very back. I like to be in the front so I don't have to deal with the inevitable crashes that happen mid-pack. Last thing you want to have happen is to be taken out by someone else's mistake before the ride even starts. Once you are a couple miles out it's pretty easy to keep out of harms way. People spread out in long lines. Especially after the first sand wash. Don't forget to enjoy the Mariachi bands.
I'm going to try and make it again this year. If I do, I'll be on the tandem too.