Comment by Lio

100% this.

If you see someone with mudguards on a road bike it's a sign they're a proper cyclist.

I don't think you're allowed to entry audax events without guards and you definitely won't be allowed on a club run without them. Getting a face full of oily road water for the guy in front is not exactly fun. Even small clip on "racing blades" will get you a sniffy look.