Winch Challenge
A winch challenge competition is an event made up of several off road stages set over rough terrain where the teams race one at a time, attempting to be the fastest to get their 4wd from the start to the finish.
The stages
Because of the challenging nature of the stages, the 4wd's are all equipped with winches so when they don't quite drive up over, or through, whatever obstacles they come across, the co-driver (winch-man) leaps into action setting up the winch to get the vehicle back on firm ground as fast as possible. The clock doesn't stop while the teams are winching so excellent teamwork, fitness and ingenuity are all needed.
Vehicle specifications
Some of the 4wd vehicles are highly modified, but all of the 'Challenge Class' must remain road legal and comply with a set of vehicle specifications that encourages innovation but ensures winch challenge is an affordable, safe and enjoyable motorsport. There has been a 'Club Class' category added to the mix of competition that provides a lower level of competition and vehicle specification.