Off-road racing enthusiasts witnessed a remarkable display of dominance as ARB Air Locker-equipped Ford Performance Ford Broncos, navigated by ARB-sponsored drivers Bailey Cole and Loren Healy, dominated the 2024 King of the Hammers Everyman Challenge. In a thrilling battle in the 4600 Currie Enterprises Stock class, the Ford Performance team showcased why the Ford Bronco is a force to be reckoned with. Ultimately, securing the 1st and 2nd place victory for the 3rd year in a row.
1st Place: Bailey Cole
The race began with Bailey Cole quickly maneuvering through an early bottleneck on Turkey Claw, establishing a commanding lead. However, challenges arose as a broken CV shaft and power steering issues slowed his progress through the rocky terrain. Despite having to winch multiple times and losing a passenger door, Cole's determination prevailed, and he crossed the finish line for his first King of the Hammers victory.
"I am on cloud nine right now, and everything is awesome," expressed Cole. "No more passenger door, but we got here. Thanks to everyone and my co-driver who had to winch way too many times today and worked his ass off."
“We knew going into this year that it was going to be a rough course,” Cole said. “I thought that there might be opportunities to take creative lines to get an advantage, and the Bronco just performed regardless of what we threw at it. We got into an early lead and kept it rolling. Man, I can’t believe it. This feels amazing. To do this in Bronco has me on cloud nine. When we came across the finish line, and I got the No. 1 from my dad, it was so special.”
2nd Place: Loren Healy
Not to be overshadowed, Loren Healy, another ARB-sponsored driver in a Ford Performance Ford Bronco, claimed a hard-fought second place.
Closing in on Cole late in the race, Healy faced the challenges of the demanding course. Despite the adversity, Healy secured second place, crossing the finish line 20 minutes later, further affirming the Bronco's capability in the toughest off-road conditions.
ARB's selectable locker technology played a crucial role in both Broncos' triumphs. The front and rear ARB Air Lockers provided the control needed to navigate the rugged terrain of King of the Hammers, proving instrumental in the success of Bailey Cole and Loren Healy.
This victory not only marks a third consecutive win for the ARB-equipped Ford Broncos in the King of the Hammers Everyman Challenge but forces everyone to recognize the Ford Bronco as a top dog in the off-road world.
