As Toot says, you set off after you have signed on, you don't all go together. People tend to set off in groups or individually so if you aren't sure of the route it's a good idea to tag along with someone that does

I didn't on my first, got separated from my guide before we'd got out of the car park and ended up in Middlesborough
A decent detailed map is a good idea too especially when trying to find the roads leading to the Hardnott Pass if it's included this year (always a challenge). Treat yourself to a celebratory T shirt when you get to the finish
