Yes, a very different and interesting race, particularly the team and gear aspects! I thought hard about it earlier in the year but it conflicted with my plans for the Rev3 Half so I didn't pursue. I'm strongly considering for a future season though!
I don't know of anyone doing it. The field is pretty limited in size if I recall correctly. I seem to recall that there were only 80 non-pro team slots available and there going to be a lottery as they expected many more applications! so just getting in may be a challenge!
Would you (or anyone else) be interested for the future?