No Name Column
Our Anniversary Slipped Right By Us
The October issue marked our sixth anniversary and we were so busy that it completely slipped by us. It’s hard to believe that the time since October 1999’s premier issue has gone so fast. We’ve done a lot of growing up and maturing since those early days of launching ORA into a very crowded field of off-roading and truck magazines. It feels good to have bucked the odds and “showed up” the big publishing house nay-sayers that scoffed at us saying we’d never make it. They’re still taking pot shots at us from time to time and we take them as compliments that we’re doing a good job and are now considered a force in the industry.
But the most satisfying feeling we have is that our readers have really responded to our efforts at showing all aspects of the sport and not taking a “we know best” what’s cool and what’s not. ORA is all about enjoying whatever your version of off-roading is and we try to cover a bit of everything. For us, it’s being on a challenging trail and appreciating all the outdoors has to offer. If something else “blows your skirt up” let us know. Even better, send us a short story and photos/images on what your version of off-roading is and we’ll try to get it in the magazine.
Soldiers During The Holidays
Our brothers and sisters in uniform are very important to us and we try to make sure we acknowledge them for what they are going through — see “Postcards From Iraq” on page 34. All of us who are home, safe and able to enjoy our lives can show our thankfulness by “adopting” a soldier this holiday season (and beyond) by sending a care package, a card or letter to a soldier you know overseas. You can also contact a military base close to you and ask if they have a soldier support group of volunteers you can contact, or check out www.AnySoldier.com for info.
Calling All Volunteers
Did you as an individual, or your 4wd club, use your vehicle(s) to help out in the search and rescue, or cleanup efforts (even your own) after the Katrina or Rita hurricanes? Have you and your buds or club done any trail clean ups or restoration that you would like to tell us about? We want to share your unique stories of how you used your ingenuity and vehicles to help out. Send us 250 to 500 words and hi-res images or photos.
2006 Club And Events Listings
Obviously, 2006 is fast approaching and we’re already putting our first issues of the year together. As is tradition, we will have our club and event listings in the January and February issues. It’s a great opportunity for you to recruit new members and promote your trail rides and events. Send your information as soon as possible to:
- Off-Road Adventures magazine
- Attn: Clubs/Events
- 801 W. Artesia Blvd.
- Compton, CA 90220
- or email: info@oramagazine.com.
NewsBits
Tread Trainer Accepting Course Requests For 2006
The nonprofit Tread Lightly!® acclaimed training program called “Tread Trainer™” is now accepting course requests for 2006.
The Tread Trainer program is designed to train participants in innovative, practical methods of spreading outdoor ethics to motorized and mechanized recreationists.
Its courses are ideal for 4-wheeling clubs, land and water managers, safety trainers, dealers, outfitters, tour guides, educators or any other interested individuals.
“This program is really taking off,” said Dianne Olson, Tread Trainer’s program manager. “We’re excited to put together next year’s course line-up.”
Individuals interested in hosting a Tread Trainer or Master Trainer course in their area should refer to Tread Lightly!’s website www.treadlightly.org or call 800-966-9900 for request forms and more information. Requests must be made at least three months before desired course date.
The Prez Brings Home The Bacon!
photo by Steve Temple
4 Wheel Parts’ own president, Greg Adler took home the 1st Place Trophy on October, 2nd at the CORR race weekend in San Diego, California. The format for the weekend paired Greg’s Sportsman 2 class truck with the higher horsepower Pro 2 trucks. Greg started Saturday’s intense land rush start and had the truck running in the top 3 positions. And after moving into 2nd place, set his sights on the lead. But he got a bit too aggressive and ended up rolling the truck. Luckily it landed back on the wheels, but by the time the truck would re-start, he had lost the leaders. Engine troubles later put him out of the race.
The ProComp race crew went into high gear tearing apart the engine and found there was serious damage to the internal parts. They also found the aluminum racing heads had cracked and the decision was made to weld them up and hope for the best. After a precise welding job, the engine was fired and ready to go at 1am Sunday morning.
The plan for Sunday’s race was to make a conservative start to see how the motorwould hold up went immediately out the door as soon as the green flag dropped! Once again the land rush dash to turn 1 was intense and the battle was on for the 3rd position. With the motor was running strong Greg moved into 2nd place and started running down the leader. His goal was to wait for the right time and not make the same mistake as Saturday. That opportunity came on lap three as he was able to complete the pass for the lead. From there on, it came to keeping a fast pace and not making any mistakes. When the last lap white flag came out the excitement of winning caused him to make a few mistakes, but he manged to hold on and cross the finish line in first place.
The win was especially pleasing for the team’s sponsors: ProComp Tires, 4 Wheel Parts Wholesalers, Precision Grilles, Mile Marker, Dynomax and K&N; and especially for the crew who had worked so hard on getting the truck back in racing form in such a short time.
The CORR racing season ended on a high note for team and they are looking forward to next season.