Teresa Lummus’ Ladies Offroad Challenge Top 10 Experience

When I was chosen as one of the Top 10 for the Ladies Offroad Challenge, I was very excited. It had been years since I was in Arizona, more years than I will admit to.

The big thing that stuck out to me over these 4 days, was the willingness of all the people in the industry to show us how to do different things around their shops. Not everyone is willing to open their shops to a group of strangers. 

I realized that this was an amazing group of girls that love all things off-road.  Going into this, I honestly thought there wouldn't be much that I would learn that I didn’t already know. I was surprised to learn some new things like the correct way to use a Hi-Lift Jack, and the correct way to mount beadlocks. I learned how to MIG weld, that was something I had never done before.

There were two things that we did that were my favorite of the entire weekend. The first was hiking Pinnacle Peak Mountain with P.J Jones. I had no idea Arizona was so beautiful! Getting out there and accomplishing a hike with a group of women from all different backgrounds and physical conditions was challenging and very rewarding!

The second one will be no surprise to anyone. I absolutely loved off-roading in UTV’s with P.J Jones and Kyle (AKA Brazil). Flying through the hills at what seemed like 100 mph was amazing!! I have ridden in side by sides before but nothing like this! Kyle, my driver, was an incredibly skilled driver! I could have ridden with him all day long and been in heaven.

My biggest challenge for this weekend was not being in control of my own schedule. I have worked for myself for years, I’m not used to having to follow any rules or going by a schedule. I’m also not used to having to be up early either. I’m sure for other people that have a 9-5 job this wasn’t as much of a challenge for them. However, I loved not knowing what would be next.  

Other than all the amazing things I learned, the one thing I will take away with me is all the friends I made. Most people would think that with all these women in the same house for days there would be fighting. We didn’t have any of that. I will never forget meeting each one of these amazing ladies. My roomies Rachel and Danielle were awesome. I just want to apologize for all the snoring… It wasn’t me.. really. 

Photo Credit:  Rachel Speir - RS Marqueting

Author: Teresa Lummus