yesterday was my first time to creek, banged down many of the trails on my sb95, which is a 29er 140mm travel. had the time of my life but def was wishing for some more travel. went down a few black diamonds too... slowly, but I made it, also tried parts of the US open course, another adventure but again made it in one piece. I wouldn't attempt any of it on a hardtail.
the full face helmet and goggles were 100% needed, not only for confidence boost but the amount of stuff that comes flying at you when you are following someone. I was wearing knee/shin guards but didnt get the chance to see how well they work since I didn't fall, but it was good security.
BSing with someone in the parking lot, he said he saw/heard someone got banged up on 1 one of the trains unsure of the extent of injuries though. if it is someone on here, get well soon.