Stampede among the Pandemic – AZ Classic Bronco Stampede 2020

By Scott Spinning

Photos by Spinning Wheels Photography

• Wear your mask
• Don’t get too close
• Wash your hands.

If we had a nickel for every time we’ve read that this past year! Planning an event during a global pandemic is a bit more challenging.

It would seem the person who wrote the rules has never been on the trail. Masks are easy, you’re already wearing one to cut down on the trail dust, but handwashing, hmmm, you’re going to be dirty. Airing down tires or breaking something, hard to keep your hands clean. And how much more social distancing do we need than in our own rigs?

When it was finally time to go, the weather had already started its uphill climb. Arizona, in mid-May, temperatures are already reaching the high nineties.  It is one thing when at higher speeds, but on a crawl, over rocks and dirt roads, you feel the heat rolling off your motor. Arizona Classic Broncos usually hold their stampede during March; however, with no permits being issued, they had to wait.

Smaller than normal, due to several factors, it’s still the best fun you can have. Being with a group of friends enjoying four-wheeling and time looking over the different Broncos.

Finding an open trail was not hard. Your skill level determined the fun on the trails. I went with a group that combined newbies and skilled drivers. I found myself running up and down more hills than I did rock formations. Either way, it was fun. It beat sitting in the house all day.

After the trail ride, we made our way back to camp. The infamous Rock Springs Café cooked a hearty BBQ dinner adding to the evening activities and the raffle. Nothing like getting a well needed new Bronco part to fix or upgrade your rig. I can’t wait until next year’s stampede. Hoping things will change enough that more people can come out and enjoy the trails.

2021’s stampede should take place as scheduled March 19-21. Plan to attend. Come out to make new friends or reacquaint with old friends. Needing more information about the Arizona Classic Broncos, visit their website at http://azbronco.org.