I remember the proposal, and thought it had little chance of ending well. From your report, though, it sounds like you were a remarkable success on many fronts!!
I'm amazed that the entire group cooperated with the fitness & speed training (given your preference for hills!). I'm slightly surprised there were no mechanical disasters with such a diverse selection of bikes. I'm sure you were absolutely central to the success, and that most felt it to be an accomplishment. Given a group of that size with a common goal, I'd bet you made a few long term cyclists, as well. Great job!