Yellow Dog Offroad Training

“You don’t know what you don’t know. “  That old adage was on full display this weekend when 14 members of the Creeper Jeepers Gang joined Mike Faber of Yellow Dog Offroad (yellowdogadv.com/offroad) for some skill-sharpening and knowledge updating. The Creeper Jeepers in attendance ranged from very experienced to totally novice.  Everyone came away having learned something new and saturated with updated knowledge about the safest equipment, procedures and skills.

Mike is currently a probationary Trainer with the International 4-Wheel Drive Trainers Association.  He gathered us in Pagosa Springs for 2 full days of enhanced training and skill development where his passion for all things off-road was evident from start to finish. His in-depth knowledge of procedures and techniques was equally evident. There was much respect exchanged between Mike and CJG members, which set the stage for high levels of learning and fun.

Club members got hands-on experience in how to navigate uneven terrain and limited traction areas, how to use a high jack, tow other vehicles, use their winches, set up basic rope sequences for rescue, and the most-updated and safest equipment used to accomplish these off-road skills.  Safety was consistently at the forefront of Mike’s presentations and was emphasized throughout the weekend.

A resounding undercurrent for many CJG members throughout the weekend was: “Oh, I didn’t know that!”  Hands-on training by a skilled and knowledgable professional proved to be one of the best ways to expand our knowledge base and skill sets.  Doing so among fellow Club members only served to deepen existing friendships and make some new ones.  And yes, there was indeed a yellow dog in attendance.  His name is Huckleberry!  But if you aren’t throwing a ball for him to fetch, he really doesn’t care what type of vehicle you drive!