Re: gels - try GU or Honey Stingers. The fruit/berry ones seem easiest to digest. Take two with you on the race - consume one at 4miles and one at 8miles, followed by water (not gatorade) at those water stops. That is, take one just before the 4m/8m water stop then slow down & drink some water (a few seconds to drink properly is not going to seriously affect your time).
Also, unless you absolutely have to, you never want to completely stop. The lactic acid will make your legs feel like lead unless you keep moving (even if it is just walking).
The last few miles you'll be thinking "Why the h*** am I doing this." Ten minutes after you finish you'll be thinking "When's the next one?"
Good luck & have fun!
