Thursday, June 8, 2017

An Exciting Off-Road Adventure

Krawlin' for Cops 


As I pulled into Rausch Creek Off Road Park for the Krawlin' for Cops event, a familiar mix of excitement and nerves coursed through me. It seems every time I off-road I am a bundle of nerves until those tires hit the rocks. My Jeep Rubicon, my trusty daily driver, was about to face its toughest challenge yet.

My Jeep lined up ready for a trail ride.
My Jeep lined up for the trail ride

The Daily Driver Dilemma


My Rubicon isn't just a weekend warrior - it's my everyday ride. With years of payments ahead and limited mechanical know-how, taking it off-road always feels like a gamble. But the thrill of rock crawling keeps me coming back for more.


My Jeep on a rocky trail at Rausch Creek Off-road Park
My Jeep on the rocks

Unexpected Challenges

The day started with a surprise. As our group prepared to hit the trails, I found myself unexpectedly positioned as the tail gunner. With three stock Jeeps ahead of me, I was about to tackle the blue trails largely on my own.


My Jeep on an off-road trail.
My Jeep on a rocky trail

Blue Trail Triumph

Blue trails are a significant step up from green, testing both vehicle and driver. As I approached Blue 23, I took a deep breath and remembered my training. To my amazement, I conquered Blue 23 without a spotter. The rush of accomplishment was indescribable. My Jeep and I had proven ourselves capable of more than I'd ever imagined.

Check out my video 👉 Krawlin' For Cops



My Jeep on Blue 23 at Rausch Creek.
My Jeep on Blue 23

The Power of Training


My success on the trails is a testament to the incredible instructors I've had the privilege to learn from:
  • Kyle from Off-Road Consulting
  • Scott and Jon from Northeast Off-Road Driving School
  • Charlene Bower from Ladies Off-Road Network
Each trainer contributed unique techniques and wisdom that came together perfectly on Blue 23. Charlene's mantra, "I've Got This," became my rallying cry.

My Jeep as a tail gunner on Blue 23.
My Jeep the Tail Gunner on Blue 23


Checking my wheel placement from my mirror.
Checking my wheel placement



Community Support


While I tackled the rocks solo, I wasn't truly alone. The techniques from my trainers guided every move, and our trail guide's unwavering confidence bolstered my own.
This adventure reinforced a crucial lesson: with proper training, support, and a capable vehicle, we're often capable of far more than we realize. My daily driver Rubicon proved it can handle both city streets and challenging trails with equal prowess.
As I drove home, tired but elated, I couldn't help but smile. My Jeep and I had grown together, conquering new challenges and pushing our limits. Here's to many more adventures, both on and off the beaten path. With a mix of excitement and apprehension, I headed up to Rausch Creek Off Road Park this past Saturday for the fantastic event, Krawlin' for Cops. These emotions flood me every time I take my Rubicon out to wheel.



Selfie with my Jeep
Selfie



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