You pretty much nailed it describing the draw. Except for the cold part. That’s just a byproduct of the date. Some years you get 60 and sunny and some years you get cold and snowy.
It’s a great end of year race. You’ll get people that will finish it in 5 hours and pros that will finish at about 1:30.
Ends up being a great party after the morning waves come in waiting for the pro’s.
As far as races go. There are definitely “harder” races. Although you can make it as hard as you want.
It’s just an experience.