I dunno about pros, but here's some from someone who signed up just a month and a half before I did my first TFN in 2008 :) (Did 2 more after that)
- ride regularly, and get comfortable with "listening to your legs"
- there's lots of time - increase distance/time on the saddle (the latter is more imp) by 20-30km at a time.
- at least 3-4 Nandi climbs. At least a couple of double climbs. The Ooty climb will still feel longer, though pleasant.
- ride in the sun - you will have to
- figure out YOUR fuel intake - food, fluids. Screw advice - each of us needs different things (I throw in enough tea and swigs of Coke/Pepsi, apart from water, electral, tender coconut, and lots of food!).
- if you're planning to carry a camera, phone etc - practice carrying them on board
- layered clothing for the Nilgiris. Marking it right so the volunteers can trace it easily when you drop it off with them
- fixing a puncture (for me, this boiled down to carrying 2 spare tubes and replacing them - could never fix a puncture)
- positive, cheerful attitude in the face of humidity and unending climbs in Wayanad, cheers, jeers and smart ones from the locals - you'll find all kinds. When you're tired, you can lose it - don't
Have a great ride!
Rgds,
Sameer