Beginner fueling

There is so much info out there that I am completely confused.
First off, I am a newbie but 65 years old. First month in TR and have learned a lot from a lot of knowledgeable people.
I have started a Masters training program with a goal of an 40 mi MTB race at the end of the summer in 2024. Right now I have light training sessions. 2 days are 1 hour intervals and one is an hour and a half. I want to start to incorporate fueling during the longer session to see how my body handles things. I usually consume 500ml of hydration mix during the 1 hour session and I eat a 130cal/ 18g cookie. the hydration mix is also 18g of carbs@ 80 calories.
Today I did the 1-1/2 hr ride and broke in my hydration pack with 1.5 liters of hydration mix and one cookie. Data says 499 calories burned and I should have consumed 370 during the ride and I ate 2 small waffles (300 cal) about an hour before.
Should I start using a high carb mix to get my system use to it?
am i on the right track here? would love to hear what you think.

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You have lots of time. I would continue to experiment. My theory is don’t overload. Play with the least amount and greatest amount of fuel/ hydration that leaves you still feeling great. Plus everyone’s stomach is different. Solids might work for some on a hot hard ride while others can only stomach liquids. As far as recovery, since we are both on the high side of 50, be sure you get plenty of protein.
I’m sure you get it figured out.
Good luck with the race

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