Bestop Director of Sales and Marketing Jim Chick explains why the company attends the King of the Hammers event. | |
By Carr Winn
The eighth-annual Griffin King of the Hammers Presented by Nitto Tires wrapped up Saturday, February 8, in the Johnson Valley, California, OHV area. The Hammers, as it is affectionately known, brings together off-road enthusiasts from across the country, and around the world, to share in eight days of adrenaline-fueled camaraderie and passion for off-road action. Billed as "the toughest one-day off-road race in the world," more than 130 drivers from 31 states and eight countries competed in this year's event.
There is only one class that races in the Hammers—the unlimited four-wheel-drive class known as the ULTRA4s. The top 20 drivers from 2013 were automatically qualified for this year's competition. Additional drivers qualified by racing in the 2013 ULTRA4 Racing Series or through a partnering race organization. The remaining spots were awarded during the 4 Wheel Parts qualifying rounds held during Hammers week.
In 2013, Southern California resident Randy Slawson from Colton, California, was crowned the King of the Hammers. Hoping for a repeat victory, Slawson mashed through the course in pursuit of the crown again this year, but a brakeline problem took his car out of contention during his third lap. This year, Loren Healy reclaimed the title having previously won the Hammers in 2010. For complete race standings, visit ultra4racing.com.
Throughout the week, spectators also had the opportunity to explore Hammertown. This special area, adjacent to the course finish line, was filled with manufacturers' exhibits, a giant screen with a live video feed from the course and a special stage designed for racers to literally drive up and discuss their experience on the course.
Among the many manufacturers at Hammertown, Bestop had a booth highlighting its newest products, and Director of Sales and Marketing Jim Chick explained the value of supporting the King of the Hammers event.
Click on the video above to view the entire interview, or watch the video posted on SEMA's Youtube Channel.