Rock crawling. Has anyone else NOT heard of it? Take your typical jeep and modify it with a good size suspension (or two) and very large tires that practically crab independently up and in between rocks and crevices and you got yourself a rig for competition. Whew, it's a heart stopping, and mind-boggling event
It takes two to commit to this sport of daring and engineering. Since the Skyjacker Weekend is a woman's driving event, the spotter often is a husband or a close friend. The spotter's job is to direct the driver along the path outlined for the participants.Sounds easy? Not so!
The driver, though both skilled and trusting of her rig and partner, cannot see directly in front of her. With her vision blocked, the only direction she can see is to the left and right. That is, when she is level! Maneuvering a vehicle around and over extremely large boulders and rocks is an art really. It can be frightening and daunting if a tire is spinning smoke because it's stuck between a rock and... a rock.
While the jeep or specially engineered four-wheeler dangles in the air, the spotter seeks a stable rock for it to land on so the driver and vehicle don't roll over. Oh, did I mention that given just the right angle and too much pedal, it would roll!!
Every little nuance plays a part in how well the driver does on the challenging course. How her equipment works, is enough air in the tires, are they over inflated, does she trust her spotter, and most importantly, is the driver capable and fearless!? It all makes a difference. I know because I saw it up close and personal and with camera in hand. Of course I kept an eye out constantly for an escape route because, from the looks of it, that four-wheel could have rolled at anytime!!!! This is not a sport for the faint of heart, but it's one to get you out for a day or two. All you have to do is pack enough food and water, the right clothes and sun cover, grab the dog and the family, and join the adventure. Or watch it on ROLLING ART TELEVISION, where the cars are the stars!
Thanks for joining OUR family on the web.
-Cheryl
