Ultra 4 racing is a high-octane motorsport that combines elements of rock crawling, desert racing, and short course racing. The Ultra 4 Racing Event dubbed the "Badlands Brawl" held in Attica, Indiana on 6/8/24 showcased the best of off-road racing with its challenging terrain and intense competition.
I had the pleasure of collaborating with Stacked Offroad, Rock Krawler Suspension and Warn Industires in an epic weekend of chasing a podium finish.
What are Ultra 4 Racing Classes?
Ultra 4 racing features several classes, each with its own set of rules and specifications. The 4400 class, also known as the Unlimited class, is the premier class in Ultra 4 racing. These vehicles are purpose-built for extreme off-road racing, with powerful engines, massive tires, and advanced suspension systems.
The 4500 and 4600 classes are for vehicles based on production models, with modifications allowed to enhance performance and durability. These classes offer a more accessible entry point for racers looking to compete in Ultra 4 events.
What Makes Ultra 4 Racing Special?
What sets Ultra 4 racing apart from other off-road disciplines is the combination of speed, technical skill, and endurance required to succeed. Racers must navigate challenging rock sections, high-speed desert terrain, and tight corners, all in the same race.
The diverse nature of Ultra 4 racing courses tests both the driver's skill behind the wheel and the vehicle's durability and performance. It's not just about speed; it's about strategy, adaptability, and the ability to overcome obstacles in the most extreme conditions.
Considering these parameters, race teams construct the optimal vehicle within their class regulations. Every racing team must also form their own skilled pit crew, capable of quickly repairing/rebuilding the racetruck.
Badlands Brawl
Anyways, Back to the Event- After hauling ass through the race track, Team Rock Krawler's stock class Jeep JL flopped on a steep climb due to an electronic transmission lock out forcing the vehicle into park with the front wheels up in the air. Driver Sergio Pinillos, was able to get it back on all 4 wheels, and miraculously pull off a 4th place finish showing the unmatched durability of Rock Krawler Suspension Systems.
Stacked Offroad's driver Diezel Krentz, wheeled a heavily modified Jeep JKU "El Torito" and had similar luck. On a steep decline of rocks, Stacked had a violent roll during qualifying. Finding the front end heavily damaged, Team Stacked put all hands on deck replacing front steering components just in time before the race. Regrettably after a fast initial lap passing multiple competitors, "EL Torito" encountered a computer problem, concluding their day.
Overall it was an epic weekend of mud, good friends and racing that I wish everyone could experience. Ultra 4 racing is now on to Metalcloak Norcal Stampede 6/28/24 in Sacramento California, if you are in the Cali area, grab a ticket and see for yourself what Ultra 4 has to offer.