Surprisingly, the sun was out for the entire weekend as FWD-FWD [Fort-Worth Dallas Four Wheel Drive club] hosted the 1997 SWFWDA Fall Quarterly in Clayton, Oklahoma. Due to the rainy weather at several recent events here, this part of the world was beginning to develop a reputation among four-wheelers as being permanently rain-soaked. But not this time. It was clear and beautiful with estimated highs in the lower 80s and lows in the mid 40s. Perfect 'wheeling weather!
In addition to great weather we were blessed with a great crowd. There were 185 vehicles and over 250 people in attendance, and it was a well-behaved, fun-loving group. There were numerous breakages, and at least one rollover, but no injuries.
A total of 15 runs were offered Saturday, with difficulties ranging from mild to wild. Trails included everything from steep, rocky hills to mud holes, rock crawling to simple trail riding--all in the beautiful setting of the Kiamichi Mountains. A good rain during the previous weekend (while we were pre-running!) was enough to keep the dust down, but the trails were dry and in excellent condition.
After returning from the trail on Saturday, attendees were treated to a 'burgers & 'dogs dinner catered by K-Country Restaurant in Clayton. Then there were 3 night runs, a bonfire, and of course the SWFWDA quarterly business meeting to round out the evening. Sunday morning brought the SWFWDA Club Challenge, which was won by Tim Boone of FWD-FWD in his bright yellow, bobbed Scrambler. Congratulations, Tim! That means that Tim and FWD-FWD will proudly host the Club Challenge again next year.
After the Club Challenge were some abbreviated runs before the folks headed home. Everyone seemed to have a good time, and there were no major hang-ups, which is a credit to the team that put it all together.
If you missed this it, don't despair. We'll be back in Clayton for two major events in 1998:
- Rick Neil FWD-FWD 10/1997
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