The Xtreme Off-Road Racing Association (XORRA) traveled to the front-range town of Colorado Springs, Colorado, for rounds three and four of their eight-event series, bringing with them an exciting new format for both fans and competitors alike.  Spectators were treated to true side-by-side racing at Ram Off-Road Park, where the center banner that used to divide the courses was removed. Longer courses and multiple laps made for near non-stop action, as drivers now had to not only concentrate on what lay ahead but also what might be coming up from behind.

This year, the XORRA also dropped its East/West series format for a Pro National Series, where teams will now submit only their best four finishes for championship points.  The eight-round national series will not only give teams more opportunities to race, but also a better chance for a top-place finish at the end of the season.  So far, only a handful of teams are taking advantage of the new format by competing in all of the first four events.

Off to an early lead in the championship points race was none other than Monster Energy’s Shannon Campbell.  Finishing on top of the podium in both rounds one and two, Campbell came into Colorado Springs with his typical “go big or go home style.”  Campbell found himself in the lead early on day one and never looked back.  Posting the fastest times of the day, Campbell put himself in familiar territory by winning round three. Halfway through round four, Campbell found himself sitting in third, behind park owner Ray Mandel and leader Derek West. Steering issues (Mandel) and an untimely roll (West) put the well-known green M right back on top where he would finish the day. 

Taking the first four rounds in the Pro National Series, Campbell has put himself in prime position for another championship title.  If he is able to win one more round, he will secure the title and add another notch to his championship belt.

“I’m not sure how the point system works,” Campbell stated.  “I’ll just keep on trying to win, and then there won’t be any questions.”

The best match-up of the weekend was Derek West pitted against Levi Shirley during round four. Nearly side-by-side for their entire four heats, the two changed leads several times and had a few close calls that brought spectators to their feet cheering loudly. The pinnacle of their heats was after they rounded a loose corner, just before the gap jump, and simultaneously aired out their cars to the crowd’s delight.

The XORRA will hold rounds five and six in Jellico, Tennessee, where Campbell has an opportunity to take the series just over halfway through the season. There is no doubt, however, guys like Derek West and Brian and Levi Shirley will be there to challenge Campbell and not give the series away too easily.

Round Three Results
1. Shannon Campbell
2. Ray Mandel
3. Derek West
4. JT Taylor
5. Jason Fieully
6. Rick Deremo

Round Four Results
1. Shannon Campbell
2. Ray Mandel
3. Levi Shirley
4. Derek West
5. JT Taylor
6. Brian Shirley