Cychologist

Good advice here. Most people can comfortably ride 40% further in an organized ride than they do on a solo ride.

The week before, concentrate on eating complex carbs.

Hydrate the day before, night before, and morning of the ride. Drink every fifteen minutes on the ride.

Eat a comfortable breakfast, not a big one. Stay away from the heavy fats like bacon.

During the ride, eat something but not a lot every hour, but eat what you know your body tolerates during exercise. The rest stops will have what most cyclist like. You may want to try carrying an energy gel and/or energy bar.

Don't spend too much time at the rest stops. Stretch, refuel, socialize a minute, but don't stay until your body thinks the ride is over.

Ride your ride. Don't try to stay up with those who regularly ride much faster than you. Ride within yourself, at your pace. Then if you are feeling great, push it the last ten miles or so.

Have a good time. That's what it is all about.