I did this race in 2005. Left Chicago for a few days in the sun only to be greeted by monsoon rains and wind and temps in the low 30's. Winds so strong my tent was slapping me in the face as I tried to rest. Tire sucking wet sandy trails. Meanwhile back in Chicago it was sunny and 45 degrees that weekend.

Nevertheless, it was an awesome event. I'd love to do it again someday. Probably not in the cards this year though.

This would be an awesome event for the FORC crew style. Lot's of folks just havin a rockin good time. Lots of local brews being passed around and good ol' fashioned MTB comraderie.