Dropped like a sack of 'taters

I was out to get a hard group ride in Sun., and I got it, just not exactly how I wanted it to happen.
Headed out of town, SE, at a controlled pace for about 20-30 minutes. Once we got to more open roads, the pace increased which was fine. Running 2x2, I took a turn up front and lifted the pace to about 25 mph, over a little rise, and pulled over to drift back in line.
As I drifted back there were all kinds of gaps, but I didn't want to cut anyone off and jump in, so I drifted all the way back to the end of the line, which totally killed me. I found myself loosing contact with the main group and trying to catch on was not going to happen by myself. I ended up running close to LT into the wind hoping the group would let up.
At one point, Jeff and Arjen turned left and the rest of the group went straight. I figured the group would come in contact with those two just down the road, so I went straight. Still chasing, still burning too many matches, and about 15 minutes later I caught back on with the group. I was cooked and glad to get a bit of a rest.
My recovery was quick, so I was able to go with any surges that occurred. Most of the group stopped at Shary/Mltry Rd but myself and few others cont. on north up to 107 and back around to Edinburg. Got in 45+ miles, with a lot of tempo, some LT, and plenty of sketchy riding in the group(at one point, the guy in front me completely locked up his brakes at about 22-23 mph.....WTF! We all scattered like flies trying to avoid him). Next time I turn left with Jeff and Arjen.
Get to do some tough intervals this week compliments of coach.
Also get to do my 1st road race next weekend down in H-town. Not sure how fresh I'll be, have 3hrs on the mtb Sat, and then the race Sun. Looks like I'll be sitting in the group a lot trying not to get spit off the back again!