SC4x4G Run of Fools
April 2011
Although it was still early April, a warm summer-like breeze blew across Millionaire Mesa as we watched
the last of our group depart on Sunday for home. Climbing aboard the Champagne Train to begin our
drive home, Lawana and I reflected on our 2011 Run of Fools and how consistently great trips are with
the Social Climbers Group…
Unusually warm temperatures greeted Friday’s early comers to Millionaire Mesa. Even though we
arrived well after dark, temperatures remained in the mid-70s. Greeting us with warm welcomes were
Bob & Kathi, Ed & Jeni, Buzz & Mary, Jerry & Terry, Kyle & Angie, and Richard. Mike & Deb arrived
shortly after us and our group was set for the evening. After our Hellos and a few rounds, everyone hit
the rack in anticipation of a full next day.
On Saturday morning, Jason arrived in Party Barge and we packed for a 9:30 start time. Our plan was to
cross S-22, hook up with the TDS trail and run it backwards to the new Truckhaven 4X4 Training Center.
As we were departing camp, TJ John and YJ John arrived, quickly unloaded, and joined our group. Our
11 rigs quickly moved through the TDS trail and into Obama’s Notch, a tight, twisty canyon that tested
everyone’s articulation. Party Barge lost a front ARB fitting but, with a little help, Jason was soon back on
the trail. Before long we were at the Truckhaven 4X4 Training Center.
Tons of RVs dotted the landscape adjacent to the Center yet the course was surprisingly deserted.
That is, until we arrived. Suddenly, we had a large spectator gallery observing our rigs as we focused
on the Black Diamond obstacles. The concrete pipes/rock garden challenged many of our group with
high-centering issues. Ed tore open a sidewall while negotiating a boulder but overall the obstacle was
fun. We played around on the RTI ramp for a while and then headed for the shotcrete canyon. Piloting
SuperCJ down the entrance ramp, I soon found myself wedged in the canyon so tightly I was unable to
move forward or back. While working the rig and waiting for an axle to snap, SuperCJ finally fell on its
side and, a little rock rash later, it was free.
Everyone was having a great time testing their rigs. TJ John and YJ John were like little kids in a toy
store at every obstacle. Ending up at the earthmover tires, we were all surprised at the lack of traction
they afforded. TJ John, YJ John, and Jason did great on this challenge. Unfortunately, Ed tore the track
bar mount and a section of frame from his TJ. Hearing the noise, Mike thought it was merely a spring
reseating, but Ed knew something was seriously wrong during the road trip back to camp.
After a great Happy Hour and Goodnights, the “Wind from Hell” greeted us @2:30 am and blew like a
sumbitch until dawn. However, the morning was clear, warm and wind-free. We headed down the slide
and spent the day carving notches and kicking up dust. Sunday was the best wheeling of the weekend
and as usual we never really lost sight of camp.
Trip highlights? Buzz & Mary’s Social Climbers flag and newcomers Jerry & Terry, TJ John, and YJ John
coming out to the Mesa. Thanks to everyone that participated and made it a memorable trip.
Tom
