This years 17 Miler started just as the hail and rain stopped, leaving everything wet, muddy, and cold. The course is set in the bluffs of MN and has 3100 ft of elevation gain and loss. The biggest climbs are the ones from the valleys up to the top of the bluffs. Though it was dark and overcast this year, the views were still spectacular. The course in places was very slick, so shoe choice is important if the weather is similar in future years. There are well stocked aid stations about every 3 miles. Parking is not a problem. The t-shirt is one of my favorites so far this year. A longer account of my race can be found at www.trailrunningfaith.blogspot.com