Go Your Own Way
Friday Presents the Greatest Challenge Yet: Deciding Which Path to Follow!
Words: Matthew McNulty
Photos: Justin W. Coffey & Logan Gallagher
Friday at this edition of Monster Energy Trail Hero offered more of a choose-your-own-adventure-book sort of a day, rather than the rock climbing carnage from earlier in the week. With a later start to the morning, the first event on the docket was the test and tune in preparation for tomorrow’s Sand Outlaws Drag Race. Despite it being more like a drag show than a drag race, crowds still grew along the track to watch the impressive acceleration tests and fine-tuning taking place next to vendor row.
With the perfectly calm glassy water in the background, absolutely massive mounds of cardinal granules were thrown rearwards as these purpose-built speed demons rocketed down the sand strip. With a Bobcat and other heavy equipment on standby to repair the course every couple of runs, action was a sporadic moment of adrenaline in-between calculations while cars were being dialed in.
These UTV’s had effectively removed the “U[tility]” aspect from their capabilities. Shedding clearance for a more sand-hugging structure. With a massive set of paddles on the rear and skinny bald tires up front, they provided some marginal control over as these spaceships launched into the horizon. Many resembled road-going hot-rods more than their former factory selves. With colorful paint and livery including rich reds and purples, as well as a Ricky Bobby Wonder bread tribute, the spectacular visuals were only matched by the roar of anti-lag and blow off valves singing in unison.
As the day evolved with plenty of time to explore the unscripted events at Trail Hero, a lunch stop for tacos was a necessity, versus a desire. With plenty to offer within the confines of Vendor Row as well, other options for a quick meal can be distracting along the journey. And the exploration between booths made for a mini pedestrian adventure. The best of the industry unrolled themselves onto a red carpet laid out for onlookers and potential customers eager to learn about the latest and greatest. But in reality, it seemed more like the masses preferred the small talk and meeting new faces to consuming goods alone.
The atmosphere also provided shelter from what felt keenly like a late summer sun rather than the more anticipated autumn one. Free Monster was also on tap at their trailer courtesy of the long-standing title sponsor, which also provided music and dancing for those who felt compelled to celebrate with some light gyration, or otherwise warm up for the night’s festivities.
A mere mile from the entrance to the main drag, more crawling enthusiasts could be observed playing on the numerous rock walls riddling the park. Watching SXS’s go fully airborne – when they aren’t clawing up a crag – completing their landing with a quick holler of excitement to meet the accomplishment. With or without the audience, the energy was just as amped.
The sun reached its late day rise over the park, and with it came the afternoon heat. At that point, there was no better relief than getting up to speed and playing around in the dunes. Feeling fresh wind through the face of a helmet and poking around the many rock formations and impromptu sand tracks meant there was something for everyone.
Everyone from experienced trail masters to more novices could be found making their own memories, with significant overlap between them. Groups were huddled around each feature, either preparing their attempt or taking a break before moving on with their trip.
Sunset brought on a new slew of options, the most attractive of which was the Trail Hero Music Festival’s second night. With the headlining act as Saving Abel, and a full lineup of equally alluring opening acts. With a massive group already gathered, and even more arriving in Sand Hollow by the end of the week, the atmosphere was exceptionally lively.
As dramatic lights danced across the show, interrupted only by the shadows of the swaying bodies packed into the floor with jubilant celebrations made for a brilliant sideshow to the stage acts. As the drinks flowed and conversation followed suit, the night slowly ground towards its conclusion.
For those who wanted more on-trail action with a colorful backdrop, the Baja Designs night ride provided a group ride of a variety of vehicles, sporting every color imaginable in the lighting department. With the path adequately illuminated, Sliplock Gulch trail became home to a lumbering convoy of enthusiastic participants.
With so much available for a day’s adventure, even a full schedule would leave one wanting more, wondering what they had not yet seen or missed. It makes the climax tomorrow even more enticing. Can someone say FOMO?
We saw the extent of enjoyment today. And with our final day well on its way, it’ll be tough falling asleep tonight! Want to see how the remaining mayhem unfolders? Follow along on our social channels: Instagram @UTVSportsMag or Facebook at UTV Sports.