The 2012 Trans-America Challenge
This morning I was delighted to find out that the Endurance Rally Association had chosen to route part of it’s legendary Trans-America Challenge down Teller County Road 46A…and right past the Sanborn Western Camps front gate.
These amazing classic cars (all pre-1973, and many far, far older), make the journey from New York to Alaska in about 30 days. It is a fully supported rally, with mechanics and support vehicles along the way, and the race organizers even post a daily blog sharing the highlights of the day’s journey.
Beyond the fun of seeing all of these intrepid drivers (who often waved and honked as they revved on by), the best part of waiting for the cars was listening for the distinctly deep and throaty sound of these older cars as they came around the tight curve on 46, and opened up their engines on their approach toward the Sanborn sign. In between the cars, the sound of the wind and the screech of Red-tail hawks riding the morning thermals were the only other sounds one could hear.
We all wish the drivers and their cars the best of luck during as they continue their drive from Durango tomorrow on into Arizona. As fellow adventurers, we know they will marvel at the expanse and beauty of the American West as we do every day of the summer!
Author’s Note: We are beginning to suspect Florissant truly may be the Center of the Universe…or at least, the Center of Adventure. Next fall, the USA Pro Cycling Challenge will ride from Breckenridge to Colorado Springs, following the route over Hoosier, Wilkerson, and Ute Passes that many campers and alums would find quite familiar. The riders will pass the main camp sign (on Highway 24) on Thursday, August 24th. If you are interested in using camp or The Nature Place as a “base camp” for your OWN ride to Wilkerson Pass (or just want to stand by the Sanborn sign and cheer the riders into Florissant) please give us a call at 719.748.3341 or email ariella at sanbornwesterncamps dot com.
