I have quite a few friends that have done both Leadville and Marji, and quite a few of them have never finished Marji if that tells you how tough it is comparatively.  I've done the MG100 3 times and gotten the buckle twice.  I can tell you that if you have great technical skills and good strength, most of the course is rideable and it greatly reduces the amount you have to push your bike.  What's tough for many is finding comparable trails to train on that mimic what's on that course to improve your skills.  And you're right, most people that think they have a chance at the buckle, don't actually.  It's insanely tough to do that course at the pace needed to buckle, plus most everything has to go right as every second can count.  The Underdown trails have some of that Marji feel with the rocks, roots, and elevation gain, so I'm glad you mentioned that one.
Eventually I'll have to get out to CO and do Leadville, but it's not a high priority as it's not as challenging in comparison to other events I've done.  My next big event is the Marji Gesick 200 Out and Back for 2024.  I'm still trying to wrap my head around the logistics of this and how I'm going to stay awake and mentally focused for 30 hours on the bike.
Oh, and one other comment I wanted to add about Marji Gesick.  For an unsupported race, there's more support out on that course than most any other supported race I've done.  The way the community comes together for this event is like nothing I've seen anywhere else.  It's certainly something that needs to be experienced!

Great video.

I’m first time rider and finisher of the MG50 this year.  I loved every minute of it.  Didn’t break any records, but got it done.

Great recap, I know I’m 2 years late to the party but I’ve done both and spot on with your recaps. I’m lucky enough to have a sub 9 hr Leadville and 2 Marji buckles. Marji is soo much fun. I would do that race every year if it wasn’t 20 hours away. Glad I saw found your recaps.

Cascade Cream Puff

🔥

Great video! I've got some #unfinishedbuisness at the Marji to get after this year!

Now you should do the Butte 100.

Awesome video, MG is mtb Brutality 😂

I’d like to just finish the 50 mile MTB for Marji.

Great way to compare the two. This reconfirms my assumptions about how very much different these are. Marji sounds like the "better" time in a F'd up way all around. I have to ask, which one are you likely to do again?

I would have subscribed but you have 420 and I didn't wan't to ruin it.