Pine Bluffs, WY

Leaning Rock - Canyon

4.185(based on 11 reviews)
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11 0
Monocacy
Gold level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience: 24.4 years 582 played 95 reviews
4.00 star(s)

Unique and dramatic

Reviewed: Updated: Played on:Aug 23, 2024 Played the course:once

Pros:

Unique and challenging disc golf in an extreme and gorgeous landscape of canyons, cliffs, low pine forest, and an occasional semi-open meadow. Exhilarating and exhausting on a hot August afternoon, especially after climbing up to the beautiful cliff-face basket on #18, and then clambering the rest of the way up to the parking lot.

This course has some of the most dramatic elevation I can recall on a disc golf course. The closest comparison I can think of would be a smaller-scale version of Diamond X, which we also played on this trip.

Nice variation in hole lengths, ranging from 150' to 658'. Many holes are 250' or less, but still challenging. Straight, left, right, up, and down tee shots and approaches. Severe rollaway potential on many "greens", several of which are set at cliff's edge or on a narrow ridge.

Excellent tee signs include a somewhat stylized map and distances to both pin positions. Signs are mounted on a metal post that includes a red or blue bolt at the top, indicating which pin position is in play. Pay attention, because throwing to the wrong position risks an unnecessary canyon ascent and/or descent.

White-banded and white-caged Dynamic Veteran baskets were mounted level, caught well, and stood out from the landscape (but see cons).

I have played Leaning Rock twice, and both times had the course to myself (although I did see quite a few players show up as I was finishing my round - perhaps a league?). Anyway, if you want solitary immersion in a dramatic wilderness, this course is hard to beat.

Steps have been installed on some of the steepest ascents and descents, but more would be welcomed. I saw a few "next tee" signs and log-defined paths, but again more would be welcomed.

Cell reception for GPS was good (and it needed to be - see cons).

Cons:

Navigation would have been near-impossible without UDisc. Next tee signs are few and far between, paths between holes are often barely discernible, and most baskets are blind from the tee. Even on your approach, many baskets are tucked behind pine trees or ridges and remain hidden until you are quite close.

Some of the descents were very steep, with a non-trivial injury risk from slipping on sandy soil, loose rocks, and slick pine needles. I'm a creaky old guy so I'm sure younger players will manage, but at least wear good shoes.

Not much undergrowth but a reasonably high risk of disc loss with plenty of blind throws, grabby pines, and rollaway greens. I left two discs on the course: one high in a pine tree and one over-enthusiastic approach that disappeared down a steep drop-off past the basket. I had another approach that went maybe 20' past the basket and barely hung onto the last rock before a steep ravine.

Lots of prickly plants all over the course. I foolishly put my hand down on a climb and ended up with a handful of thin stickers that were quite difficult to remove. I also had a large cactus spine that penetrated my shoe top, so you might want to wear something sturdier than mesh.

Tee pads are reasonably level rubber mats, but those with a long run-up may feel constrained.

Other Thoughts:

This is one of those courses that I expect to recall fondly long after playing. For me, the beauty, challenge, and uniqueness of the course far outweigh the cons. I would happily bump my rating up to 4.5 with navigation improvements and steps (or even a rope!) on some of the more dangerous descents.

Many memorable holes, and I am surely leaving out a few. Hole #1 has a large turf platform at treetop height, throwing 467' steeply downhill. Blast a drive out to the right, which is more open, before fading back into the trees.

Hole #5 is a 250-ish drive across a steep canyon with the basket mounted precariously on the cliff's edge. Your reward for climbing up to the basket is a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

Hole #10 is only 162' but straight up a cliff while dodging pine trees. A full noodle-arm throw with a fairway driver got me maybe two thirds of the way there lol.

Hole #7 is only 247' but straight downhill to a basket hidden behind pine trees. I threw a Harp on what felt like a 45-degree downward angle and somehow parked the basket. This was one of the sketchier scrambles down the hill, however.

Hole #18 is a gorgeous finishing hole. Straight drive through a gap in the pines, and then steeply uphill to the basket set in a huge, rough boulder that looked pink in the afternoon light.
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19 0
jasonc
Silver level trusted reviewer
Experience: 21.5 years 281 played 35 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Elevation, elevation and more elevation!

Reviewed: Played on:Apr 14, 2023 Played the course:once

Pros:

-Hole #1. Top of the world view that is such a great way to start a course!
-If you enjoy elevation, this course will not disappoint.
-Amazing views throughout the course. We took multiple breaks just to soak it all in along the way. Holes 5, 7 and 16 were others where you can see for miles.
-Great variety with shorter and long holes. Some of the shorter holes like #5 at 195'/255' seemed like no big deal when you look at the sign on the tee pad but still took a while to get to the basket because of the extreme elevation changes.
-The signs and baskets were in good condition.
-Some of the rubber teepads weren't 100% flat but overall they were good...Better than other mountain courses I have played in other states.
-We didn't see anyone else on the course until we got back to the parking lot where there was a group just making their way to Hole 1. I loved the secluded feel here.
-Rugged, mountain terrain. Some people might put this in the con section, but I loved it!

Cons:

-There were a couple holes where the signs, map and UDisc didn't help.
-Sometimes the cacti will sneak up and bite you.
-It's a little tricky to find the parking lot/Hole 1 after entering the park but if you take it slow and follow the local directions on the course info page, you won't get lost.

Other Thoughts:

-Fun, fun, fun course! I would absolutely play it again if I get back to this neck of the woods.
-Bring plenty of water and snacks. You don't get back to the parking lot until you are done with 18.
-This course is not for beginners.
-Don't bring a cart.
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18 0
mndiscg
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 16.4 years 502 played 494 reviews
4.50 star(s)

The Bluffs are for Real 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Aug 18, 2021 Played the course:once

Pros:

+Great signage. The photos here are of old, temporary signage. The new stuff is great. Full color with all the info that you need to know. Look for the bolt above the sign, that indicates which pin position it is currently in. I think that was correct every time that I played. The new signs definitely help with navigation.
+Nice baskets on every hole. They have arrows pointed toward the next tee built into the bottom of the basket.
+This is real, mountain style golf. Incredible elevation changes on a lot of holes. Fun rock formations. Fast greens. Unique pin positions. These bluffs feel like many of the big time mountain disc golf courses.
+A ton of shot variety. There are a fair amount of shorter holes but many of those have extreme ups and downs, tight lanes, fast green, valleys, etc. There are no gimme twos on this course for most players.
+Really cool top of the world style shot on hole 1 with a huge turf tee pad.
+Two other courses on site. You can make a day of it.
+Next tee signs all over the course. It also tells you which way to go on the tee sign so check that out.
+Tees now have a black rubber mat on them so they are plenty grippy and smooth. I played with a light rain/mist going on and they were plenty grippy.
+Didn't see any other golfers out there at all.

Cons:

-Playing solo, there were a few holes that I didn't want to throw since it was too hard to keep an eye on my disc. Hole 1 and I think that 11 was the other one. Even with the signage, it is hard to know exactly where the pin is and discs can fade so hard on these sloped mountain courses so they can go forever once they are out of sight. You could lose a disc if you play solo.
-Definitely not for the out of shape people. Bring hiking shoes, be careful walking up and down some of the loose hills. Take a break if you need to.
-This course is not one of those that is highly manicured with lots of amenities. If that's what you are expecting, this isn't it.
-If you want to air out longer shots, play the prairie course. Most of this course is about elevation gains and losses or about hitting lines. Holes 1 and 6 will let you air it out but this is more about control.
-The rocks will eat up disc edges a little bit. Not a huge concern if you are traveling through but might be if you play here often.
-Hole 6's basket was not there. I found two ground sleeves but no basket.

Other Thoughts:

+I think that this course continues to improve. Recent reviews on Udisc talked about navigation issues but there are new looking signs to help with that. Old photos show different tees and signs. The other two courses on site are definitely behind this one in development. I'm sure that they will continue to improve as well.
+There are two other fun courses to play! I parked at the rest area and walked in to the complex. I played hole 8-18 on this course. 1-10 on Pinecone, and then 1-18 on Prairie before coming back and finishing 1-7 on this course. If you park at the starting point for any of the courses, you can play them all starting at 1.
+Use the udisc map to navigate all three courses. It will help.
+Best Holes:
1- Top of the World- bring a spotter
5+17- Cool valley style shots
6- Longer, two drive type of shot.
7- Another top of the world style.
+I think this course would be more fun every time that you play it. The first time, it is a bit hard to know where baskets are. The next times you will have a better feel for how to attack it.
+This course is pay to play. I felt as though it was more of a donation request than a true fee. Well worth it either way.
+Overall, this course just has very high fun factor and wow factor. I was smiling all round and was always excited for what was next.
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11 1
BlackberryGirl
Experience: 15 played 15 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Incredible 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Sep 19, 2020 Played the course:once

Pros:

I agree with everything posted. Great scenery. Awesome big throws with elevation.

Lots of hiking and loose rocks to watch for.

Did not see anyone else playing on weekday morning.

Had to drive to 220 Main St. to pay the $5. It was a general payment box so we just added cash. I assume they can figure that out as no envelopes available.

Hole 5 is a Canyon to left. Really plan to throw right or else a long hike down canyon to get disc (possible but challenging).

Hole 10 & 11 are up then down and neither have a fairway, would have skipped if I knew. Plenty of hiking without this.

Again, amazing course.

Cons:

Really none but had a couple of problems finding the starting point so wanted to add this detail:

Driving in, keep going until you see the wood sign over the dirt road for Leaning Rocks Golf Course (there is ball golf here also and both start near DG hole #1).

The parking lot is a small gravel turnout but has cement stairs to #1 Top of World shot and course map.

Hole #8 has course map and parking at rest area and starting where would work well.
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13 0
bobmcnelly
Gold level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience: 13.5 years 356 played 203 reviews
4.00 star(s)

2+ years

Reviewed: Updated: Played on:Sep 15, 2020 Played the course:once

Pros:

- new veteran baskets
- great large tee pads
- good variety of distances ranging 150' to 700' shots
- great variety of shots types to throw, you'll find yourself throwing all the shots you have
- more elevation change than you'll find almost anywhere
- tons of wow shots
- awesome views
- great work out

Cons:

- one of the most rugged courses I've ever played, very steep spots, seems like it could be a bit dangerous for someone who isn't very used to this type of terrain.
- several completely blinds throws with elevation change that make looking for discs a pretty regular thing
- navigation isn't terrible but there's a few holes where some extra signage would really help out, any wrong steps on this course can cost you a ton of energy

Other Thoughts:

Great course but I wouldn't recommend playing it if you're in a hurry. Take your time and enjoy the course safely. Brings hiking shoes and plenty of water.
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16 0
letsgobulls_24
Bronze level trusted reviewer
Experience: 14.5 years 582 played 19 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Mountain hiking with some dg sprinkled in 2+ years

Reviewed: Updated: Played on:Jul 23, 2020 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

This was hands down one of the most amazing courses I've ever played. If you want something out of the ordinary, the polar-opposite of a standard course, then look no further. I happened to be passing through for work but I would recommend this as a destination course worthy of traveling to. The scenery is absolutely jaw-dropping; a few of the downhill and uphill shots simply dwarf the best comparison holes I've played on other courses. There are a mix of pars, hidden baskets, risky death putts, glides over canyons, lines around tight bends- I basically used every shot in my repertoire, except for a roller. Holes 1, 5, 7 and 18 in particular are fantastic and would be the best hole on almost any other course. Signage was good, there was enough seating, the rubber tee pads make sense, and there is little chance to lose plastic here.

Cons:

This was one of the few times I've ever felt unsafe while hiking or playing disc golf. I was alone and some of the walking paths are so steep that I slipped but luckily caught my balance before falling. The elevation wore me out! It is not for the faint of heart, so be prepared to sweat, wear good shoes, and bring plenty of fluids! Installing sets of dedicated stairs and/or guardrails would go a long way to improve the overall safety. It needs more garbage cans.

Several times I had trouble finding the basket, even with good signage. A spotter would be helpful on most shots. Hole 5 can be treacherous if an errant shot is thrown or rolls into the canyon.

Other Thoughts:

Beginners will find this course intimidating; amateurs and above will relish nearly every single shot.

All in all, this course is one I will never forget. The unique hole types and diversity of shot requirements makes it stand out amongst the scores of samey, mostly forgettable courses. Leaning Rock DGC was a joy to play and I would love to return someday.
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15 0
JuanA
Silver level trusted reviewer
Experience: 24.4 years 119 played 29 reviews
4.00 star(s)

Not for the faint of heart 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 27, 2020 Played the course:once

Pros:

- A dedicated 18 hole DG course.
- Tee signs are new and in great shape.
- Veteran baskets still look brand new.
- Easy stop off of I-80.
- Almost every hole is an epic shot.
- Risk/Reward is fantastic.
- Great scenery from all over the course.
- Some benches have been added throughout the course.
- You will be worked!

Cons:

- Geographically undesirable.
- Very rough terrain (only a con for some)
- Zero amenities.
- No water...bring extra!
- Extremely cart un-friendly.
- Not beginner-friendly.
- Some baskets felt 'overly' hidden and obstructed.
- Some players may not like the rubber tees.
- Some tees are small and offer no run-up.
- There is shade here but it can be hot.

Other Thoughts:

- First a word of caution...This course is very rough and physically demanding. If you are out of shape, have trouble with your balance or footing, or struggle with altitude this course is not a good choice for you.

- Now that that's out of the way...Wow, I don't even know where to start with this review. This course is physically epic and will test not only your stamina but almost every shot you have in your bag. I've never fought so hard to save par.

- The front 9 has more of the big-arm holes, and the back is much more technical. Overall though this course rewards accuracy and intelligent shot shaping. It severely punishes lazy disc selection and a lack of commitment on your drives. I felt the risk/reward on almost every hole was some of the best I've played and for me the highlight of the course. I normally don't second guess my disc selection on easy courses, but I was constantly reassessing my choices here.

- I had to pre-walk a lot of the holes on the back 9 to see where we were going before throwing. The tree cover is pretty heavy, and the greens aren't always easy to spot. Some baskets seemed overly hidden which made for interesting approaches but didn't really add to the enjoyment of the hole. A better familiarity of the course would help with this.

- Take your time!! I lost several birdies and pars from being tired and breathing so heavy. Take a few minutes to catch your breath on each Tee as well as before any important putt. Rushing through this course is a mistake and it will make you pay.

- I felt the rubber tees were the right choice here. A big positive to this course is it's ability to stay dynamic and change over time. As good as this place is, I felt a few holes could use a tweak or two, and the rubber pads allow that. A few old tees can still be found, and the new locations are improvements.

- This course is not beginner friendly but only the "newest of the new" will fail to have fun here. A few holes are beginner impossible though, so a good attitude goes a long way. You don't have to be an expert to enjoy this place.

- Final thought. Pine Bluffs is another one of those fantastic courses in the middle of nowhere. It was almost a two hour drive to play here, but totally worth it and I can't wait to go back in the fall. This is a physically epic experience that everyone should try if they are in the area. Just be sure to bring good shoes.



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9 0
little oz
Bronze level trusted reviewer
Experience: 13.3 years 103 played 31 reviews
4.00 star(s)

This course ruined my daily DG existence 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Aug 25, 2018 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

Coming from Colorado Springs, I have settled in to a predictable circuit of courses. I played my first tourney in 3years at the WYOpen last week, and now I look at my daily courses as mundane walks compared to this course. The geography of this course is epic and amazing. Allow 3hours if playing with a partner; bring water, trail shoes snacks and humility. DD veteran baskets are awesome, pin placements are high risk, even though scouting is often required with a vertical walk. Roll always are a reality on many holes. Having completed the 500 mile Colorado trail, this course is the closest to backpacking I have played. Tee pads are level, well boxed, with solid signage. Some may be put off by not having a "clean" putting circle, but I like that you can't just have a "okay" upshot and putt out from 20'. Hole 1is a top of the world shot that announces that this is no common experience. There are no gimmies on this course, except 14. This is not a course that makes you feel good about your game, as you will find yourself in some uncomfortable spots that will require creative shot shaping. Scenery is wonderful, traffic is low. A must play if you are traveling through. I would call this a destination course. Support local businesses as much as you can to show appreciation.

Cons:

Lack of amenities would be the only drawbacks. No trash cans or benches.Pads are rubber, and its $5 to play, but don't bitch. Access can be tough if you don't read the directions here, or just start at hole 8. During tourney play in the morning it was 57 degrees, raining and 25-40 mph winds, but you should expect this on a high point in Wyoming.

Other Thoughts:

Must play course only if you have time and are prepared.
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11 0
Upshawt1979
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience: 21.4 years 562 played 429 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Leaning Rocked Me 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 7, 2018 Played the course:once

Pros:

Driving all the way across Nebraska on I-80 is totally worth it, as long as you bookend the trip with Hummel in Omaha and Leaning Rock, about 3 miles across the state line into Wyoming. Playing this course will make it clear you're moving out of the Great Plains and into Rocky Mountain territory.

I chose to park at the rest area and take the short walk to start at hole 8, which was nice and conveniently close to the Interstate and gas stations. If I had it to do over, I would have parked closer to the first hole and started at the beginning. If you do start from the rest area, park at in the few spaces at the end of the lot, and walk to the left side of the giant teepee toward the bluff. Hole 7's basket will be visible next to hole 8's tee on the left.

I loved the terrain of this course, but it has heavy trees on many holes, and the hike is more intense than most courses. The hills are often rocky with tricky footing, so wear appropriate footwear.

The tees have good rubber mats framed out, and are nice and level. There are signs, and the new Dynamic targets are great. I like the arrows built into the rungs of the lower basket that point toward the next tee.

I only played one round, and the good news is my mid range Roc was flying great. I was surprised at how well it carried in the elevation, and how straight it flew. I parked several holes and made 5 birdies. The bad news is I probably didn't throw it enough. All of the birdies were wiped out by a double bogey and a triple bogey, and 8 other bogies piled on along the way leaving me with a +8 (63).

The only par 4 hole is number 6, and all others are par 3. A few of the holes are clearly visible from the tee and have a fairly good line through the trees. Many of the others are longer and have pins that are hidden amongst the pines and harder to access. The balance of fun short holes and longer, more technical holes is well matched, but there is little in between here.

I liked the tee shot over the tree tops on hole 1, it was a great opening throw, without a lot of interference if you keep it out of the trees. Holes 5 and 7 are really fun short holes with cool views and interesting throws from tee to basket. 5 is a line over a low area to a basket on the edge of a steep drop. 7 starts at the top of the bluff and the basket is at the bottom, taking a drastic drop on the way down.

Get the birdies where you can, because the difficult holes can eat up strokes in a hurry. Hole 6 is the par 4, and it requires two good throws just to get in range of the pin, which could still be out of sight. 8 and 9 both have slippery pin positions, but at least you can see where you are aiming for.

I felt like I made a good drive on 11, and it was ok, but I still had to scout around to find the basket after locating my disc. Tough pin to get to in 3 shots. 13 was a cool hole, and mid range will get you in position for birdie at either pin as long as you hit the line. 15 is reachable, but the pin is again in a precarious spot, and the line has to be nearly perfect to get through the trees that guard it. 16 has a similar feel to 13 and is also a cool tee shot.

17 and 18 were similar as short and easily visible, but uphill with some really cool pin locations. Hitting the line is crucial, because if you're not under basket the approach can be very tricky.

Cons:

Landscape has tremendous ups and downs, and going from a to b is no walk in the park in some cases. The woods are thick and so is the rough in places. I spent about 20 minutes looking for a disc that sailed into the tall grass under the trees to the right on hole 9.

If you aren't familiar with the layout, you may want to take the time to walk a few holes before throwing, just to find out where the pin is at. Having a spotter may come in handy at times.

Not beginner friendly. I played 5 courses on this 5 day trip, and this was the only one that made me sort of glad I left my old dog at home. He probably would have loved it and done fine, but the footing is pretty bad in places, and he isn't a pup anymore.

Bring water and sunscreen, this one could take a while.

Other Thoughts:

I think Leaning Rock DGC is great. Some of the holes were a bit dinky, and some were really ferocious. Some may think a few of the fairways aren't fair. They're not wrong, but I enjoy a good challenge.

The sign at hole 1 says money raised will go toward installing another 18 hole course. If that happens, I will be back to check that one out too.

If you like mountainous terrain and don't mind playing difficult layouts, then I would tell you to play here if you can. It isn't perfect, but I haven't seen many courses that are comparable to this one so far.
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4 6
BKPower
Experience: 22.5 years 130 played 1 reviews
4.50 star(s)

2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 3, 2018 Played the course:once

Pros:

This course is on the perfect property with a shared side to a ball golf course and a highway rest area on the other. The signage is absolutely on point and is very easy to find your way!! Overall the course is FANTASTIC!!!!!! The pictures on here are out dated and the entire course nice Dynamic signs. Great amount of different shots. The only real advice is, wear pants and hiking boots. Enjoy :)
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10 1
dtriscari
Experience: 25.3 years 268 played 2 reviews
3.00 star(s)

Well On It's Way 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:May 2, 2017 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

This course has the potential to be epic. There are fantastic rocky formations, great elevation changes, plenty of trees, scenic views, and a chance to see some wildlife (I saw a fox today!).

The brand new Dynamic Veteran baskets are badass!!

Great hike while playing. Bring appropriate footwear and water.

Hole 4 is only about 200', but if you overthrow this hole to the left, you can end up WAYYYYY out of position down the backside of a "cliff". This type of risk/reward factor is plentiful on this course.

I love the green on hole 5. The pin is just above this rocky outcropping which, if you don't make, you're in trouble.

Sloped greens make the course more challenging and lead to roll-aways after missed putts.

Lots of elevation changes coupled with nearly constant wind keeps things interesting.

Cons:

There's too many short holes, # 12 & 14 in particular. These are just throw away filler holes, less than 150'.

There needs to be some more tree trimming on the greens. Too many times I find myself trying to make some crazy circus shot within the circle.

Some fairways still need to be cleared. Hole 3, position B and Hole 6 (2nd shot) come to mind. You're basically just throwing at a wall of trees on these holes.

Where is that epic 700' hole teeing from the top of the cliff to the valley below? Hole 7 could be it, but presently the hole is only about 200' away with a 50' - 70' drop in elevation. I throw my putter...it's lame.

It's difficult to find the first hole. You take some dirt roads up into the hills, navigate through multiple unmarked forks, and once you get there, the gate is closed and there's a sign that says no trespassing. Now what? Much easier to park at the rest area where you'll find a paved parking lot with facilities and trash cans. From here you can follow the walking trail to hole 8. Seems like the obvious place to start the course.

Other Thoughts:

This course is BRAND new, and I hope that in a year or two most of my Cons will be irrelevant. I think that this course is still a work in progress and over time these issues will be addressed. I sincerely hope that before they pour the pads they'll go back and rework some of the holes. I'd like to see a few more par 4s (there's only one now) and maybe even a par 5.

The Canyon Course at Leaning Rock is literally RIGHT off the highway. If you're passing through on I-80, you HAVE to stop and play this course! Totally worth it!!

This is probably one of the best dg courses in WYO as is. If they extend it and do some trimming, it could be something really special!

They're planning on building a second course adjacent to this one.
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