Why do organized training rides for your charity ride

You've signed up for a charity ride (yay, good for you!).  Hopefully, this ride has organized training rides.  Why should you take the time to go to a few of these rather than just riding on your own?

I rode 85 miles by myself. ANTISOCIAL

If you are new to cycling and/or have only biked on your own there are a whole bunch of skills you need to learn.  These range from standard long distance cycling tips (eat! drink!) to how to safely ride in a group (point out obstacles! communicate!  don't halfwheel!).

Studies have also found that people riding with friends will go faster and further.

A group of cyclists together is more visible and safer.

There's a more important reason to do training rides though.  To paraphrase the great Bobby Mac of blessed memory, training for the event is the sundae. The event is just the cherry on top.  Training IS the event.  Make sure you have fun doing it.  Riding organized rides gets you out and experiencing the culture of the ride.  You also meet people and make new friends!

So much happier riding with friends!

Lastly, and this is particularly important on one day events, meeting fellow riders gives you a chance to develop a culture unique to the ride you're going to be doing.

Esprit de Corps!