Was the entry fee more than other races? Yes. Was it any less enjoyable than other races? Not at all. It was a seriously tough route, reminded me of the old Lourensford MTB races. Plus it was bloody hot! The singletrack was great and not everyone easily has access to these trails, so it was fun to experience them for the first time and have the added plus of water points along the way. There were far too many people in front of me who just simply stopped going up a climb that was more than ride-able, but that's what happens when you get seeded badly. And yes, far too many people wearing out brake pads on the descents. But all in all, it was a proper ride. ~1,300 m elevation gain in 45 km is never easy.
