Well first thing is to try and find some feet, but sounds like that might be problematic with the field size, but you just never know. And as long as you are not last, a chance someone that went out slower will come by, so be on the lookout for that. It usually happens wide of you too, so keep your head in the game, looking around, sighting, and just seeing where folks are at.
You didnt say whether or not you have a personal paddler, that changes the entire dynamic of a long swim. If not, I would just put about 3 or 4 gels under my suit where I could get to them easily. Make sure you are well hydrated before too. If they have an aid station, take advantage, unless you are riding on some good feet at the time. I would plan to go the entire way on a few gels that are quickly downed if I had some good feet. Otherwise just fuel up when you can and have a fun solo day out there. Find a rhythm that you can hold, and dont worry about how fast you are going until you smell the barn..
You didnt say whether or not you have a personal paddler, that changes the entire dynamic of a long swim. If not, I would just put about 3 or 4 gels under my suit where I could get to them easily. Make sure you are well hydrated before too. If they have an aid station, take advantage, unless you are riding on some good feet at the time. I would plan to go the entire way on a few gels that are quickly downed if I had some good feet. Otherwise just fuel up when you can and have a fun solo day out there. Find a rhythm that you can hold, and dont worry about how fast you are going until you smell the barn..