Well here is my perspective. It is a flat course compared to some hilly ones but there is still 3200ft of climbing, there are flatter centuries and beginning the season it might feel a little worse. Last year when I road in my triple I never used my small ring. The winds can be bad in the beginning but they are manageable especially considering the tail wind. Lots of roller then a 50 downhill section into the bad pavement. The last 25-30 miles has a slight head wind and 1% grade (maybe) so that will pay its toll if you are not ready for it. Definitely a great event but there are LOTS of riders. Great food at the stops and lost of HS bands. Last year I got a room for the next night since I did the half marathon as well and it was roughly $60. definitely one of my favorite rides because of the location. It can be 40 at the start and then warm up to 70 by the end. Last year my ride time was 5h40m and I think I was in the stops for maybe 30mins?