We took our hook and went trolling for true four wheeling, rock crawling, off-road enthusiasts. We wanted real-world feedback and hoped to encounter new product ideas along the way.

We would not be disappointed.

Livonia-Mojave_Map

OFF TO THE RACES

The SpeedHook™ concept came from the racing community, so that’s where we began. We’d been told “if anyone can appreciate the usefulness of SpeedHook™, it will be this crowd.” It’s the quick way to get out of a bad situation; loop the recovery strap up and over the hook and tug. There is no tying of straps, no fumbling with d-rings.

(INSERT THE VIDEO WITH DAVE SHOWING HOW IT’S DONE?)
AP-KoH-RecoveryTent

The natural habitat of off-road racers (and fans) is miles from civilization, in remote places without electricity or water. So in 2013 we designed a Spectator Recovery Station to grab their attention and meet their needs. We would stock it with charging equipment for cell phones and a generous supply of free bottled water to keep them hydrated in those dry and dusty places.

The recovery station had its debut at Ultra4’s King of the Hammers.

2014 Griffin King of the Hammers

Mojave Desert, February 7

They call it “The toughest one-day off-road race on the planet.”

We hired and trained local brand representatives and joined them in charging cell phones, passing out free water and introducing SpeedHook™.

King of the Hammers is an epic experience where each vehicle is custom fabricated for technical rock crawling and an ability to exceed speeds of 100 mph. When things break – and they DO break – repairs must be done on the track by the racers; or in the pit area.

Spectators are nearly as brave as the racers. Johnson Valley can be a treacherous place; rules for race week include everything from being careful of loose rocks on steep ledges to not viewing the race within 150 feet of the course.

It was a thrill to introduce SpeedHook™ to the Ultra4 zealots, but we continued to look for the demographic sweet spot; OR real potential users OR our tribe OR recreational users?

Meanwhile we would continue the conversation by supporting the sport.

Dirt Riot and Ultra4 Racing

West Coast; vehicle sponsor since March, 2014

In March we became sponsors of the racing vehicle owned by John Brock; he races Dirt Riot and Mike Klensin races the Ultra 4 series. Supporting the vehicle, drivers and races – online and off – keeps us connected with the fan base.

  • Dirt Riot Endurance Racing, a.k.a. W.E. Rock – is known as the “World extreme rock crawling championship series.”
  • The Ultra 4 series “combines desert racing and rock crawling into the world’s toughest one day off-road race.”
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Despite a difficult year, we’re pleased to announce that Klensin endured adversity to secure a seat at King of the Hammers in February.

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At Glen Helen in July, 2013; Mike Klensin driving, John Brock co-driver.

EVENTS AND VENUES

Off-roading is an increasingly popular action adventure sport and venues are stepping up to feed the need for speed, trail driving and rock climbing. Hundreds of worthy events take place across the country every year. We chose to begin near Moab, Utah.

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Easter Jeep Safari

2014 Sponsor of Area BFE

In early April Amanda Products signed on as a 2014 sponsor of Area BFE near Moab.

“We are glad to support AreaBFE and its land use efforts allowing everyone to enjoy this property,” said President of Amanda Products Robert Gruschow. “In return, we’re excited to give people a chance to see the new SpeedHook™ in person and get to know the Amanda Products brand.”

It was the first time a true Jeep audience saw SpeedHook™. They admired the function and the design. We found our tribe OR our ideal demographic.

Then we packed up and crossed country to attend …

Jeep Beach 2014

Daytona International Speedway, 4/23-27

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That weekend there were about 8,825 people in the speedway.

CUSTOMERS WITH A CONCEPT →