Fourwheelers are a unique bunch of people. They come from all walks of life, spanning all age groups. Our sport is a competitive one in several ways. The first way involves man (or woman) and his (her) machine against whatever obstacle is to be tackled. We modify and tweak our vehicles trying to find the optimal setup to conquer our latest challenge, whether it be a rocky canyon, swampy mud hole, snow-covered mountain, or a scenic byway that takes us to a place away from the urban crowds.

The other way we become competitive is amongst ourselves out on the trail. We challenge each other to see who can make it through certain obstacles, with extra admiration bestowed on those of us that do it with the most finesse (which sometimes just means without breaking any parts or crunching sheetmetal). Most of us pride ourselves on how smoothly we can clear an obstacle, meanwhile trying to MAKE IT LOOK easy.

These challenges many times go unspoken on the trail, but the competitiveness is there, as each of us tries to pick a line that we think will get us through while providing the most fun. However, where our sport seems to differ from many others is in the air of cooperation and assistance shared by fellow fourwheelers. Despite the competitiveness present on the trail, there is an even higher purpose to see that each and every vehicle makes it through to the trails end. This is where participant cooperation helps to form a team effort in seeing that everyone has fun and makes it out at the end of the day.

Most fourwheelers are eager to help spot for another and to assist beginners in learning how to drive their vehicle over challenging terrain. When someone does break a vehicle, it is typical to see plenty of helping hands come forth to repair the problem. This includes offering advice and expertise, and loaning tools and spare parts that may be on-hand. This spirit of team work is inspiring to watch.

Many times, the same helpfulness is evident in sharing tricks learned in vehicle modification. Those that have designed or refined rig changes are often quick to explain them to others and share their knowledge for the good of the sport. This cooperation helps the sport evolve by introducing new vehicle concepts, such as many of the custom suspensions that are appearing on trails today.

It also impresses me how friendly and hospitable fourwheelers can be out on the trail. I've been to events that draw participants from all over the country and it is not uncommon to strike up conversations and chat with people on the trail as if you've known them for years.

These are just some of the features our sport offers that make it fun for all and allows many to share in the camaraderie of meeting new people and seeing new places.

See ya on the trail!