LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – In the heart of the scenic Palma Ville Puguis, the rugged terrain came alive on March 16, 2024, as the Baguio-Benguet 4×4 Club kicked off their annual 4×4 challenge in collaboration with Municipal Mayor Romeo K. Salda, as part of the festivities for the Strawberry Festival 2024. Led by President Ervin John Tan, the club brought together enthusiasts from far and wide for a day of adrenaline-pumping off-road action and festive celebrations.
Tan, speaking passionately about the event, emphasized its dual purpose. “We celebrate this kind of event in cooperation with a Strawberry Festival and one more thing is masyadong maraming enthusiasts dito sa atin who would like to play this kind of event. “
“The purpose of this is to encourage yung mga local off-roaders to come and join us play and celebrate the Strawberry Festival,” he added.
Now in its fifth year, the 4×4 challenge has become a hallmark of the Strawberry Festival, drawing participants and spectators alike. The event features two main categories: the Production category, catering to smaller vehicles, and the Open Category, welcoming both small and large vehicles to tackle the demanding terrain.
The roots of the Baguio-Benguet 4×4 Club run deep, with origins tracing back to the late nineties. Over the years, the club has grown into a tight-knit community, continually welcoming new members with a passion for off-roading and adventure.
The club’s activities extend beyond the Strawberry Festival, with regular 4×4 challenges held during other local celebrations such as the Adivay Festival and Tilapia Festival. These events serve as opportunities to showcase the thrill of off-roading while fostering camaraderie within the community.
While owning a 4×4 vehicle is advantageous for participation, Tan emphasized that the club is open to all who share their enthusiasm. “First of all, sana meron kang four-by-four na sasakyan na gagamitin pero kung wala, mahilig ka lang and you enjoy the group, open naman.”
As the day unfolded at PalmaVille Puguis, the roar of engines and cheers of spectators filled the air, painting a picture of camaraderie and excitement. For participants, the 4×4 challenge offered not only a test of skill but also an opportunity to forge lasting memories amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Benguet’s countryside.
Tan extended a warm invitation to all who share a love for off-roading. “So we invite everybody. Enthusiast or yung kahit hindi enthusiasts pero mahilig sa 4×4 or off-roading. You can come join us pag may mga ganitong celebration, pwede din kayo mag member ng Baguio-Benguet 4×4 Club.”
As the sun set on another successful 4×4 challenge, the Baguio-Benguet 4×4 Club reaffirmed its commitment to adventure, camaraderie, and the spirit of exploration that defines the off-roading community. With each event, they continue to leave tire tracks of excitement and memories in the rugged terrain of Benguet, keeping the spirit of off-roading alive and thriving for generations to come. By Jackielyn Reyes
