I’ve linked the event
https://www.audax.uk/event-details/11085-rutland_and_beyond
I will try not to repeat what others have said.
It’s winter and there may be suggested routing changes on the day due to ice. Listen to what the organiser / volunteers have to say about any possible on the day changes. If you don’t understand something, ask a question. No question is stupid.
1. The brevet card handed out the start may or may not have your details on a label on the back. If not fill them in. You’ll need to sign the card.
2. The event closes at 125 entries which suggests a good turn out for an audax. You should expect there will be someone riding about your pace if you are prepared the flex your usual speed a little.
3. Some cafe controls are mentioned and these may be manned by a volunteer who will stamp your brevet card in the box for that control. If they are not manned then make sure to ask for a receipt with your purchase. The control receipts are necessary to validate your ride.
4. There will not be arrows on every turn like a sportive. A copy of the Route sheet as backup to your GPS can be a life saver if it fails. A Route sheet also gives you turn by turn instructions and details of which villages you pass through as well as what’s on the road signs. Before the event load it on your GPS and make sure it shows the right distance. Sometimes supplied GPX files are provided with too many points and can get truncated by older devices like the 510. If you use Garmin Connect add course points (if not already in file) to alert you to the control locations.
5. I route my 300km audax along the dam side of
Rutland water. Enjoy it, it’s not a race, and very pleasant along there. Usually not too busy unless you hit park run. There’s public toilets between the cafe and bike store at Normanton. Part way up the steep bit, on the right if you’ve come across the dam.
You have a time limit of almost 9 hours. If you plan to take full advantage of that (or have some mechanicals), then make sure to have some lights. The lanes have no street lights.