Learning To Ride In A Group

So being a fairly inexperienced road cyclist, I need to learn or experience what it is like to ride in a group of cyclists both I depart for Amsterdam on the 3rd June 2016.
So as part of my training plan I have entered my first sportive. The Wiggle New Forest Sportive on Sunday 10th April 2016.
I believe there will be circa 1,000 riders taking part in this sportive. Claimed to be the most popular event in the UK Cycling Events calendar, this two day event will ensure I learn how to ride with other riders in small and large groups.

You can read more about the event here or by clicking the link below:

http://www.ukcyclingevents.co.uk/events/wiggle-new-forest-spring-sportive/

Or watch the video from last years event below

I've entered the Standard route which is 67 miles, as I felt the Epic route of 84 miles was a little intense! The course around the national park that is the New Forest is pictured below:

UK Cycling Events describe the event as follows:

Starting just outside the National Park, near Ringwood, you’ll begin the ride in the south-west corner of the Forest and head east first of all, completing an anti-clockwise loop of the woodland area on the day on unspoilt and quiet back lanes with picturesque views.

As you ride and take in the views in the rolling scenery, there will be a number of hills to challenge your legs – plus a test to come near the end – with short and sharp climbs popping up every now and again to keep you on your toes. Beautiful New Forest villages of Sway, Beaulieu and Lepe are passed through before you head north and back into the centre of the district.

Quickly in and out of central point Lyndhurst, you’ll soon cross the M27 and take on the events major climb of the day, just outside Nomansland. It’s steep, but fairly short, so you should be able to dispose of this quickly and continue on your way. From here, it’s downhill all the way – with one spiky hill exception around Stuckton and the final feed stop – as you roll back around the edges of the Forest, towards Ringwood, and claim your medal, t-shirt and Powerbar recovery product at the finish line.

Somerley House and Gardens are not usually open to the public; however as an added bonus, riders of the Wiggle New Forest Spring Sportive and supporters will have the chance to view some of the State rooms within the House and access to the Gardens on the event day.