Taunya Jones
Rogers, AR
Selected for Ladies Wheeling Weekend
"Taunya likes to go off-roading to get more time in the driver’s seat and gaining more recovery skills. She is a mom of three, a certified surgical technologist and is a helper by nature and loves to give back. Her other main hobby is going to concerts."
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Tell us about yourself.
I’m a 47 year old mom of 3, the youngest is 16. I am a full-time CST (Certified Surgical Technician). I like to go off-roading and get more time in the driver’s seat. My other hobby is going to concerts.
How long have you been offroading?
We used to go when we were kids, but in the last 6 years we/I have been doing it on a more regular basis. The last 2 years I have been wanting to drive more and be more hands-on in regards to maintenance, recovery, and repairs.
How did you get into offroading?
My husband and myself have very high-stress jobs, hopping in the Jeep and just getting out of the city and decompressing is what really reignited our passion for off-roading. I have a lot of great friends who off-road for the same reason.
Tell us about your vehicle.
I have a 2014 Rubicon also known as Sexy Beast. Everyone pretty much knows me by my Jeep. She is pretty well decked out; 35’s, fierce attitude tires, winch, e-synthetic line, full skid plates, Bushwalker fenders, ROCK lights, accessory lights, fire extinguisher, and short exhaust.
What has been your favorite offroad experience?
Meeting Charlene Bower last year in Moab, Utah! Winning a chance to go out with BFGoodrich Tires, Raceline Wheels, and Poison Spyder was really awesome! Going to Moab was also on my bucket list.
What was your most exciting offroad achievement?
The first time I climbed a big, steep pile of rocks that I didn’t think I was able to achieve!
What excites you about offroading?
There are so many places that you can go and challenge yourself and your vehicle. Meeting new people is always exciting too!
What do you think is the most challenging aspect of offroading?
For me it is trying to remember that: 1) I can do it, I just have to do it, 2) I have a rig that is way more capable than I remember sometimes, and 3) not to grab the steering wheel so tightly!
Which aspect of offroading do you think is the most fun?
Really it’s about the awesome people I have met! In the last 2.5 years I have made some friends that are more like soulmates. It sounds crazy but we have formed some strong friendships!
What does prepping for an adventure look like in your world?
My husband likes to take care of me so he usually handles a lot of choosing what tools we take, or parts we need, making sure that everything is in working order. We always have our bug-out bags with water, food, tools, supplies, etc. plus I bring my muck-boots, folding chairs, sunscreen, and bug spray. We mostly just do day trips.
What is on your offroading bucket list (not including the Ladies Offroad Challenge)?
I would love to the Rebelle Rally at least once! I would love to take a trip like the Trail of Mission with the Desert Assassins.
Tell us about your typical offroading companions.
Mainly my husband and people from our off-road club and anyone else who might want to go. There are a lot of different personalities and everyone for the most part, mesh well. We have some very well seasoned off-roader who love to help newbies!
What is a piece of advice you have been given that you instill in your offroading adventures?
You have to trust your spotter and listen to them! If you don’t trust them, then don’t be afraid to ask for a new one.
Do you have anything else you would like to add?
I would really like to thank Charlene for this opportunity ti step out of my comfort zone and just try something new and different. Her words of encouragement are empowering if you just listen.
Click here to see all the 2017 Ladies Offroad Challenge Entries.
