For as much off-roading as Alex and I have done, we still have a ton to learn. That was no more obvious than when we spent a few days with renowned 4WD trainer Bill Burke last month. You see, Bill has easily forgotten twice as much about off-road driving as I've learned over the past 6 years. As (among other things) a Camel Trophy Veteran, trainer to enthusiasts, government … [Read more...]
I4WDTA – TFC Day 3
The previous 2 days of the International 4-Wheel Drive Trainers Association (I4WDTA), Training for Certification (TFC) had been nothing short of a whirlwind. The periods of classroom instruction covered dozens of topics at a breakneck pace, and the practical portion had pushed all of the candidates far outside of their comfort zone. Needless to say, everyone was ready for the … [Read more...]
I4WDTA – TFC Day 2
Day 2 started on a rainy and damp morning, but there was nothing but energy in the air. The candidates had their feet put to the fire on Day 1 and expectations for their performance had been set. Yet while all of the candidates had a clear understanding of what it would take to succeed during the Training for Certification (TFC), the instructors had a few more curveballs … [Read more...]
I4WDTA – TFC Day 1
“Check your ego at the door.” At 6 AM I woke up bleary eyed and exhausted, although much to my surprise all of the staff and candidates had already packed up and were down at the community center. Quickly, I was reminded that this wasn’t some bush league event, so I grabbed my gear and hauled it down the road to make the 7AM start time. When I walked into the … [Read more...]
I4WDTA – An Intro
Back in March of this year we were given the exclusive privilege of attending the I4WDTA's Training for Certification (TFC) in Uwharrie, NC. We were also the first "media" outlet of any kind that's been allowed to sit in on this rigorous 4 day event. Over the next few weeks we'll describe and share with you everything we had the privilege of experiencing, but for now, lets get … [Read more...]