Tag Archives: muddy chef
Ellsworth Classics – NEW SPONSOR
Want a classic Land Rover? Head over to Ellsworth Classics and check out their inventory.
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The Muddy Chef Challenge Competition
Mike Ladden of Drive the Globe shot this awesome video!
Off-Road Adventure at the 2019 Muddy Chef Challenge
Thanks to Dive the Globe for this fantastic video.
CHOPPED Competition at the 2019 Muddy Chef Challenge
Thanks to Drive the Globe for this great video!
Land Rover – TITLE SPONSOR OF THE 2018 Muddy Chef Challenge
Paul Odelson / PROFILE
The Solihull Questionnaire
If Land Rover made an aircraft would you fly in it? Why/Why Not?
No. Hell no. Don’t want to play the “what’s that noise” game at 5,000 feet
Tell us a little about your background, your career, and where you live.
Born in New York City, Staten Island to be exact, aka the cousin Oliver of the boroughs. Grew up in Jersey. Went to college in New Hampshire fell in love with New England and never left. I practice real estate in Boston, but live about a 100 miles out of town in rural New Hampshire in a town with no post office and more dogs than people.
What’s your team name?
Team Blockheads. When you see my yellow labs it makes total sense
How many Land Rovers have you owned and which was your favorite?
A 73 Series 3 88, 96 Disco, 93 RRC, 95 RRC and currently a 60 109, 67? Lightweight and a 98 D1. By far the lightweight. Actually has a little speed, for a Rover
What’s the best thing about owning a Land Rover?
They give you a sense of humor and patience and if they don’t, nothing will
What’s the worst thing about owning a Land Rover?
I’ve heard good things about something called “heat” inside vehicles. Hoping Land Rover decides to look into that one day.
Been on an adventure? – tell us about it
Are we talking a breakdown adventure? Because I don’t know how much room I have.
If you could ask Land Rover for a particular type of vehicle what would it be?
A lhd 130 would be nice but a vehicle from Rover chock full of lightweight parts would be nicer. You know how tough it is to source lightweight parts in the States??
If you were on safari which three (living, dead, or fictional) people would you pick to bring along?
George Adamson
Denys Finch Hatton
Taylor Swift. I mean have you seen that video with her and the Rovers?
Whistle Pig Whiskey – OFFICIAL SPONSOR
EVENT SCHEDULE
Thursday, July 26
Event Registration and Campsite Setup
10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Registration opens at 11:00 a.m. for all guests. Campsite setup and meet and greet. Campsite registration closes at 7:00 p.m. You must be onsite by 7:00 p.m.
The Low Range Games – Bridge To Nowhere / Rat Cage
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Enjoy a challenge? Join us for two great events. The Rat Cage event will test your ability to handle your Land Rover and problem solve in tight confines. Service Bay – build a simulated log bridge and navigate your vehicle over the abyss. Minimum of three teammates required for this event.
Fly-Casting and Private Tour at the Orvis Flagship Store
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Want to try your hand a fly fishing? Join the Orvis Adventures staff at the Orvis casting pond at the Orvis flagship store in downtown Manchester. The Orvis flagship store will open for a special private tour and sale – only for Muddy Chef attendees.
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Vendor Village Opens – Vendor Presentations
13th Street Cocktails
8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Join Aaron and 13th Street Cocktails for an evening of legendary refreshments.
Quiet Hours
11:00 p.m.
Friday, July 27
Late Event Registration and Campsite Setup
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
NEW! HOT COFFEE AND BREAKFAST SANDWICHES AT THE RILEY RINK! 7:00 A.M – 11.:00 a.m
SHOWERS AT THE RILEY RINK 7:00 AM – 11:00 a.m
Beginner Off-Road Training
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Basic off-road skills and tactics. Dorset Quarry tour after training.
Guided Off-Road Tour
9:00 p.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Join Logan/Gene/Peter for a guided off-road adventure. You will be divided into three groups. Make sure to speak with each group leader about your preference of off-road difficulty. Please have your vehicle ready for an afternoon of off-road adventure. Please make sure to have your vehicle fully fueled and ready to go. Vehicles will assemble into groups and depart promptly at 10:00 a.m.
Un-guided Off-Road (Maps will be provided in the field guide)
10:00 a.m.
Assorted Events (Falconry, Fly Fishing, Sporting Clay, etc.)
10:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
Training – Using a spotter for challenging terrain. (new)
New for 2018. Join Eric Yohe for a quick lesson in effective spotting. Learn appropriate hand signals and how to use nonverbal communication to guide a vehicle through difficult terrain – without damage.
12:00 p.m. – Lunch on your own
RETURN TO CAMPSITE / PREP FOR CHOPPED / FANCY DRESS PARTY PREP
4:00 p.m.
Chopped at The Muddy Chef Challenge (BOORN BROOK FARM, 527 Benson Road, Manchester Center, VT)
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
New location for 2018. Boorn Brook Farm and the Green Mountain Falconry School. Join the staff of the Boorn Brook Farm for a tour of this amazing estate, a chance to see an African Eagle and an assortment of birds of prey and cheer your favorite Chopped team!
What is Chopped at the Muddy Chef Challenge? It’s just like the Food Network TV show – without the kitchen! Contestants must bring everything they need to prepare, cook, and serve a gourmet meal – all from a mystery box of ingredients. Please note – there is an additional cost to register for this event. CLICK HERE to register. All Chopped contestants receive custom gifts available only to Chopped competitors. If you like a challenge this is the event for you!
7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Vendor Presentations
13th Street Cocktails
8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Join Aaron and 13th Street Cocktails for an evening of legendary refreshments.
Quiet Hours
11:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 28
NEW! HOT COFFEE AND BREAKFAST SANDWICHES AT THE RILEY RINK! 7:00 A.M – 11.:00 a.m.
SHOWERS AT THE RILEY RINK 7:00 AM – 11:00 a.m
Late Arrival Event Registration and Campsite Setup
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Final event registration and campsite set up. After 10:00 a.m. registration is closed unless you have spoken to the organizer and made prior arrangements. Have an emergency? Send an e-mail to info@muddychef.com
Beginner Off-Road Training
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Basic off-road skills and tactics. Anyone who took part in the Friday training will be qualified for an advanced trail run on Saturday.
Guided Off-Road Tour
9:00 p.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Join Logan/Gene/Peter for a guided off-road adventure. You need to have your vehicle ready for an afternoon of off-road adventure. Please make sure to have your vehicle fully fueled and ready to go. Vehicles will assemble into groups and depart promptly at 10:00 a.m.
Un-guided Off-Road (Maps will be provided in the field guide)
10:00 a.m.
Assorted Events (Falconry, Fly Fishing, Sporting Clay, etc.)
10:00 a.m.
12:00 p.m. – Lunch on your own
4:00 p.m. Announcements ahead of the Muddy Chef Challenge
The Muddy Chef Challenge
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
The MAIN EVENT! Your team will create amazing dishes for our judges. You need to prepare an appetizer, a main course, and a dessert. Extra points are awarded for use of locally sourced ingredients. Click here for a complete list of rules.
13th Street Cocktails
9:00 p.m. – whenever!
Join Aaron and 13th Street Cocktails for an evening of legendary refreshments.
Sunday, July 29
Awards Ceremony
10:00 a.m.
Awards and goodbyes.
Prestige Winter Magazine – The Land Rover Muddy Chef Challenge
CLICK IMAGE FOR FULL SCREEN MAGAZINE
COVERAGE BEGINS ON PAGE 72
ROVERS MAGAZINE – covers the Muddy Chef
Muddy Chef Challenge 2016
On a damp July morning, a large convoy of Ferraris drove slowly in a circle around an encampment of Land Rovers. As Green Oval enthusiasts ogled the Ferraris, Prancing Horse aficionados stared at the Land Rovers. Weirder things have happened, but not many.
Muddy Chef Challenge 2016
At first I attributed this alternative universe moment to the presence of the free beer from the Branford, CT, Stony Creek Brewery, free rum from the Newport, RI, Thomas Tew Distillery and free cocktails from the 13th St. Cocktail Catering. Even the restorative powers of the free Cide Road Switchel didn’t change the oddity of this moment.
This added to the sounds, sights and smells provided by the Muddy Chef Challenge, held July 28-31, in Lakeville, CT, the home of the famous Lime Rock sports car race track. Nestled in the stunning countryside of the state’s northwest corner, the track hosted the Ferrari Challenge race series that weekend. The howl of tightly wound-up engines mixed with the growl of Land Rover’s pushrod V-8’s and ticking pushrods of the venerable 2.25 L four cylinder to provide an aural symphony every morning; the noise also helped shake off the effects of the free drinks.
Muddy Chef Challenge 2016
Eric Yohe created this unique experience eight years ago, a heady cocktail mixing Land Rover models of all vintages with foodies, extreme grillers, campers and off-roaders. Eric and his team also brought in vendors with enticing products and services, and not surprisingly, you find something to please most everyone. A terrific group of volunteers, including Kristen Feeney, Gene Schubert and Peter Batenaro, among others, helped smooth out the bumps resulting from the rainy weather and large turnout. Raffle income would go to the designated charity, Autism Speaks.
Most everyone in attendance had come from CT or bordering states like NY and MA—and there were a lot of them. Registrations ran well over 100 and hundreds more enthusiasts formed some 90 culinary teams. Rovers North’s Rob Smith drove down from VT in his’ ‘94 Defender and enjoyed “the sports cars racing, meeting Rovers North customers, meeting new enthusiasts and the mix of vehicles.” Michael Ladden, Hampden, MA and Carrie Touchette erected a tent large enough for a circus and for unfurling an old “West Connecticut Land Rover Club” banner (with a Yorkie for a guard dog). John Vallerand, Greene, ME, made another one of his epic drives in his Series II-A 88”. This time he packed the Rover with the largest teepee tent I’d ever seen, as well as his mother and sister. Somehow he found room for his signature cooling utensil, a round griddle the size of a manhole cover.
In comparison, my tent was the size of a beach towel which barely covered my sleeping bag and slender air mattress, but only if I lay them out diagonally. My drive from my island town in Maine totaled 7.5 hours, which included a 1.5 hour ferry trip and the muggiest, hottest, most congested drive imaginable along the interstates in Massachusetts (#nomoresummertravel).
Muddy Chef Challenge 2016
I arrived at the fabled race track on a Thursday night, found my assigned camp spot and erected my tiny L.L. Bean tent. I also set up my tiny, two burner camp stove, small cooler bag and diminutive water jug, my one fork and spoon, ready to show off my culinary talents. By that evening a steady stream of Range Rovers, Discoverys and Defenders had emptied out their contents of Tent Mahals, grills the size of kitchen stoves, coolers that rivaled dumpsters in size—and an assortment of tables, chairs, vases, cutlery and linens that accompanied their equipment. All this glamping made me feel like a desert nomad marveling at the encampment of a sheik and his entourage.
Mike Chioffe, Stamford, CT works in IT for a hedge fund, but his escape comes in the form of a ‘95 Range Rover Classic, into which he’s put a considerable amount of sweat equity and overseen some restorative work. Mike’s tent and camp kitchen made mine look like pet’s quarters, but could barely compare with the Big Box Store footprint of Keri and Kieran Dunn from Norwalk, CT. Keri, who works for Vineyard Vines, and Kieran, who works for Pitney-Bowes, have owned their ‘02 P38 Range Rover for just a year; Keri calls it “one classy car.” The daily driver disgorged a tent so large you could stand up in it, complete with an inflatable, full sized double bed. A folding table enabled them to set up their propane-fueled baking oven as well as serve drinks in a refined manner. Durbin Hunter and Haleigh Lipnick, also from Stamford, brought an enormous tent, several propane tanks to fuel their cookstove and with cookware of restaurant quality. For grins they brought along a Golden Retriever with a proper name of Wellington—but who only answered to Mr. Pickles—that entertained every kid in the encampment. Adam and Rebecca Check, Bolton, MA, former winners at the event, created a movie set field kitchen behind their Range Rover that simply dazzled; I slid over every so often to see if I could mooch additional samples of their cooking.
Muddy Chef Challenge 2016
You could off-road during the day, with extreme trails a long ride away in MA. Across the hills lay Dutchess County, NY, with its own quaint villages, hillside gentleman farms and country roads. It’s also the home of the Orvis Sandanona Shooting School with its own off-road trails, and Crown Maple Farms, on whose property you could also go off-roading on forest trails. Both required about a 45-minute drive and some long waits on the trails, but in the beautiful landscape, whining about it seemed ridiculous. Besides, the Orvis lodge combined stunning rifles and gear with private club levels of leather chairs, drink and food, which Tim Smith, Norwalk, CT and I enjoyed enormously. Crown Maple Farms’ buildings hid their production inside handsome barns featuring tours, free samples and outdoor dining. Each day’s off-roading also featured an “Iron Chef” competition for those challenged to cook on the fly.
If you tired of the culinary world you could enjoy the Land Rovers surrounding you. Manny Backman, Warrington, PA, and his son, Kevin, Titusville, NJ, arrived in their ‘04 Discovery II. Kevin works for Major League Baseball and takes his ‘67 Series II-A to the train station. Nancy and Vincent Chong, Chappaqua, NY, found their ‘85 Land Rover 110 on Ebay and had it shipped from Florida to New York. They painted it themselves using a roller brush and treated it to a personalized plate that reads “CLIFF4D,” as in Big Red Dog. Professional race car driver Mark Hamilton Peters, Lakeville, CT and Sophie Purdy, Sharon, MA, enjoyed the day in a ‘64 Series II-A 109”, a former NATO Belgian military vehicle with a glorious patina. Bill Schimkowski, Westborough, MA, brought his restored Sage Green ‘61 Series II-A 88”; it reminded me how nice mine would look if I would stop using it for work. Bill let me drive his and demonstrate some of its off-road capabilities.
Muddy Chef Challenge 2016
Pediatrician Lin-Lin Remenar, her husband, David, and children Van, Jude and Sydney, arrived in their ’88 and ‘95 Range Rovers. She noted that the Land Rover people they’ve met come from “all walks of life.” “Land Rover owners love leads to passion, which we need more of!” She admitted to some nerves when first off-roading, but said it had become “amazingly addictive!”
Muddy Chef Challenge 2016
During one afternoon event Will Hedrick gave a presentation on his efforts to help enthusiasts hold onto their imported Defenders. Throughout the event the UK firm Arkonik presented their refurbished Defenders to excite the gathering. Founder Andy Hayes has spent several years searching out 25-year-old Land Rovers for importation to the US. He calls them “pieces of history, designed brilliantly and refurbished as such.” He seeks to have them leave his shop “better than they were in the day.” Most are from Continental countries so they can be LHD for the American market. For legal importation, the 90/110’s and Defenders must leave with their original engines; for now, that means 3.5 V-8’s or 2.5 L petrol or diesels. The handsome paint jobs and custom seats (one of which would not lift to access the underseat battery) made them look even more striking and certainly added to the joy of the test drives/rides offered generously throughout the event. Client Communications Manager Jasmin Clinton spoke of the many efforts made to educate Americans unfamiliar with these models—and also enjoyed her first ever trip to the US. Prestige Motors of New Jersey works with Arkonik on US sales and became a sponsor of the event.
Muddy Chef Challenge 2016
The “Challenge” part of the Muddy Chef Challenge kept the judges exhausted. Jim and Robert Wollschlager, of Mystic, CT and Omaha, NE, respectively, won the Team Spirit Award with their twin Series Land Rovers. Lars Vigen, Madison, CT, won the Best Campsite award due to the weekend edition of a stuffed coyote [don’t ask]. The culinary competition categories included dessert, appetizers and entrees. You earned extra points for using locally-sourced ingredients (I learned that purchases made at a nearby grocery store didn’t count), in addition to numerous other considerations. Terry Jackson, Lewiston, ME, brought his winning ingredients in his ‘11 LR4. They combined to create “sashimi tuna with a soy, sesame oil and Hillrock Distillery Bourbon glaze, on a mango and roasted corn salsa bed.” Oh—no wonder my stuffed mushrooms failed to garner an award.
By Jeffrey Aronson
Photography: Jeffrey Aronson, Aimee Almstead
Photos from the 2016 Muddy Chef Challenge | By Aimee Almstead
Overland Experts / OFFICIAL SPONSOR
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Military, civilian & NGOs
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For over 35 years, OEX Founder Bruce Elfström has perfected the science of off road driving. His team now prepare the best of the best of our military, civilians, industrial utility & mining employees as well as aid workers and NGO employees to drive well, go further and as a result – get home safely.
In our 3-5 day training sessions at one of our sites in Connecticut, Virginia or North Carolina, you won’t find any power point presentations, but a thorough, linear and methodical curriculum delivered on purpose designed and natural terrains in our unmatched vehicle fleet. Just take a look at a few of our reviews.
Training and travel for recreational drivers: 4×4 driving, off roading and vehicle-dependent expeditions all start with a core of 1-3 day advanced driving skills. Ask about upcoming expeditions to:
Our Military and Tactical training is hands on combining our advanced curriculum with highly experienced trainers and our extensive fleet of vehicles, which together make OEX’s training and reputation simply untouchable. Check out more photographs on Flickr
For NGOs, Humanitarian Aid, Disaster/Relief Agencies, Utilities, Geological Survey Companies, or On-Location Filming, we can help with driver training, outfitting, unbiased vehicle acquisition consultation. Our World-Wide Mobility Team can come to you when training your staff in one of our locations is not possible. Wherever that training takes place, our extensive fleet means that your staff will be trained in the types of vehicles they are likely to find on location or in the field – it’s not all about fully fitted-out 4x4s.
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The Muddy Chef Challenge gets a cameo on Car and Driver
Eating a plain can of tuna for dinner tonight (don’t ask, #dietssuck) I came across this article on Road and Track. Crazily, the article was originally found on the Car and Driver website. Wow is that the work of a serious slacker. “Hey, let’s post content from the competitors website”. Anyway, as I read the post, the vehicle seemed familiar. After scrolling through a few pictures – lo and behold – it’s a Muddy Chef car! Great photos too. Here’s the article and a link to the e-bay listing.
Buy This Vintage Land Rover From When 4x4s Actually Went Off-Road
No nav, no heated seats. This stalwart comes from the days when a 4×4 was a working machine.
BY NICHOLAS WALLACE / CAR AND DRIVER (ORIGINAL LINK HERE)
Land Rovers have an undeniable charm. In America, we often think of them as little more than status symbols, cars practical only for those who can afford the high running costs. Elsewhere, however, the Land Rover name is synonymous with off-road capability and durability. No model exemplifies that better than the Land Rover Series II.
The Land Rover’s birth, much like that of the Willys Jeep, came right after the end of World War II. At the time, Rover’s car sales were struggling, so the British company explored the option of building a roadgoing truck that had the off-road capabilities of a tractor. The resulting vehicle was the Land Rover Series I. Initially, the truck was supposed to have a short production cycle, one just long enough to provide working capital for Rover’s other projects. Sales boomed, however, and the Land Rover brand was born.
In the late ’50s, the model saw several improvements, such as short- and long-wheelbase variants, revised exterior styling, and a new 2.25-liter gasoline engine that produced 72 horsepower. These models were called the Series II and Series IIa.
This particular example, which is currently for sale on eBay, is a short-wheelbase 1966 Series IIa. The owner doesn’t state its mileage but does claim that it’s nearly rust-free and has been daily driven for the past six months (!). That’s the kind of commitment we love to see. And while a Series II Land Rover can go a lot farther afield, you could also take it to Whole Foods if you wanted.
Via Car and Driver
SOOOOOOOOOOOOOLD! For a tasty $17,350.00! Here’s the old ebay listing. Hopefully that $$$ will go into another Land Rover.
COUNTDOWN TIMER FOR THE MCC5!
DAP Enterprises & Performance Unlimited / OFFICIAL SPONSOR
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What does the term Automobile Performance really mean? Is that term reserved for people who want their cars to go fast, or to race in some way? In a really short answer: NO! For a true automobile enthusiast, performance can mean almost anything. Whether you want to make your car go faster, achieve better fuel mileage, look cooler through personalization of its looks, make it fit bigger tires for the rough roads ahead, or just want it to perform at the best that its designers intended it, these are all forms of automobile performance.
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You want to be involved with the modifications so that you can tell your friends you did it? Sure, no problem! You want to drop off your restoration project on a flat bed and pick it up when its done? No problem! Know exactly what you want? Have just a vague idea how you want your custom to look? We are happy to work with you for whatever your needs are.
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P.H. Allen, Managing Director
Cocktails at the Vineyard / Millbrook Vineyard and Winery
Remember last years’ soiree at the Crown Maple Estate? Simply Amazing! This year we do cocktails at the Millbrook Vineyard and Winery. WHILE watching the IRON MUDDY CHEF CHALLENGE! What’s better than, getting dressed up, having a few bespoke cocktails and sipping Hudson Valley wine? So get ready, press those Lilly Pulitzer duds and blazers. We’re gonna have a blast!
IRON MUDDY CHEF CHALLENGE – THREE SPOTS REMAINING!
THREE, count em’ THREE spots remain to participate in the IRON MUDDY CHEF CHALLENGE. If you forgot, bumped your head or just plain never heard about it – let me school you.
WHEN:
Friday July 31, 2015
WHERE:
WHAT:
In the style of the Food Network’s CHOPPED TV show. Competitors are give a mystery basket of food and must prepare a delicious gourmet meal in 50 minutes. The catch? You don’t know what’s in the basket. The cost per team is estimated to be $50.00
Chopped from The Food Network
WE provide you with the food and access to a pantry of shared ingredients (example – flour, salt, pepper, spices, heavy cream, garlic, etc, etc.) YOU provide the Land Rover and everything you need to cook with inside it. We provide the location for the challenge – The breathtaking Millbrook Vineyard and Winery and YOU cook.
Do you have what it takes?
Can you win the Iron Muddy Chef Challenge?
Will you go on to dominate the Muddy Chef Challenge on Saturday?
You will never know if you don’t sign up. Seven brave souls already have. Time’s running out!
Want in? Email info@muddychef.com for your chance to win fantastic prizes and glory!
PROFILE / Bill Lucas
1. If Land Rover made an aircraft would you fly in it? Why/Why Not?
Of course. How could shoddy electronics or dissimilar metals corrosion possibly effect the safety and reliability of an aircraft?
2. Tell us a little about your background, your career and where you live.
I live in West Hartford, CT with my wife Rae. I make my living flying a Dassault Falcon 50 business jet out of the Boston area.
My first off-roading experiences were with the US Army while assigned to an Air Cavalry unit, in many of their slung loaded ¼ ton M151’s. Over the years I’ve owned a Jeep, a Bronco, and a Blazer, spending most of the off road time on the beaches of RI and MA.
In 2009 we bought our ’04 Disco, totally stock. After one trip to the Winter Romp, I was hooked, and slowly started to bolt aftermarket things onto and into it.
3. How many Land Rovers have you owned and which was your favorite?
Just the Disco as of now, but we are considering obtaining a second one – to keep stock, clean, and running.
My favorite however would be the RHD Defender I was able to wheel at the LR Experience / West Country facility while on a trip over in the UK.
4. What’s the best thing about owning a Land Rover?
Being able to go anywhere, whenever, in a New England snow storm.
And of course, other LR owners / friends.
5. What’s the worst thing about owning a Land Rover?
Trouble shooting new noises, lights, leaks, and alarms.
6. Been on an adventure? – tell us about it
November ’11. MA’s Old Florida Road (FYI – We just added this trail to the 2015 Muddy Chef Challenge, you have been warned! LOL), with the Bay State Rover Owners group. 12 hours to finish the four or so mile course, and then the winter drive home without fwd sunroof glass and a very bent track rod.
7. How do you plan to beat the competition this year at the Muddy Chef Challenge?
I’ve seen firsthand the competition from last year. I do not plan to beat any of them.
8. If you could ask Land Rover for a particular type of vehicle what would it be?
A Disco or Defender type model that a Chevy small block could easily bolt into.
9. What upgrades/modifications does your Land Rover have?
Snorkle, HD suspension, steel bumpers/sliders, winch, aux lights, EasyPass, inline Chevy thermo mod, aft cargo conversion, new ‘old school’ Rover paint, and latest, a rebuilt ’67 Army ¼ trailer for the tent and gear.
10. If you were on safari what three people (living or dead) would you pick to bring along?
Vladimir Putin, Sir Edmund Hillary, and Bewitched’s Dr. Bombay. Then let the campfire banter begin.
And Kate Upton, assuming she’s off Keenan’s safari by now.
PROFILE / Rick Liwush
Proust/Solihull Questionnaire
This week we interview Muddy Chef competitor and category winner Rick Liwush. Rick and his Son Andy are world class fabricators and builders of one of the most fearsome Series II trucks on the planet (and he’s a super nice guy too!).
1. If Land Rover made an aircraft would you fly in it? Why/Why Not?
Probably not. Unless they teamed up with those who made the Concord. That would be a flight to remember. Just think the first land rover into outer orbit.
2. Tell us a little about your background, your career and where you live.
Even though that it’s fairly new, the Love to Overland bug has bitten me. The ability to drive in the outback and sleep under the stars and get up, break camp and do again the next day is just over the top, it should be on every ones bucket list. Have two grown children, Andy and Victoria. Restoring and building modified vehicles and spending countless hours cooking with both my children is a fathers’ dream. Was born and raised in Rochester New York, presently living in Williamson NY. Spent the last 35 years working in Contract Manufacturing for KAL Manufacturing.
3. How many Land Rovers have you owned and which was your favorite?
7 Land Rovers to date. Our favorite is the 1964 Big Tire series IIA or the LR3. Depends on the function and the mood.
4. What’s the best thing about owning a Land Rover?
The attention it brings, love the thumbs up from other drivers. It is a great way to break the ice at any event. The social aspects outweigh any negative possibilities. Being a Land Rover Owner puts you in a very special class, I have never met any LR owner who doesn’t follow the same rules when you’re behind the wheel, “No Land Rover ever left behind” Each person we have encountered have brought so many great experiences to the table, everyone is so helpful and kind. All are willing to lend a hand or whatever they have to help if you are sidelined. We have done many other events with many different clubs etc… but none are of the class of those who have the ownership of a Land Rover.
5. What’s the worst thing about owning a Land Rover?
People keep calling it a Jeep.
Maybe the leaks when it rains.
6. Been on an adventure? – tell us about it
Just got back from SCARR in Texas, what a great show. The people were so friendly and over 100 land rovers in attendance. Fantastic trails, unbelievable views and trails for all types. Interesting weather. Out of this world event dinner on Saturday. This club puts on one great event. If you haven’t done it is worth the time off from work. When we were invited to SCARR I was told that that if you could only go to one event this year, this would be the one we should go to. The challenges of the terrain is so different than what we entertain ourselves out here in the east. The Red dirt, gets everywhere were still washing it out of our LR. The networking of new friends was over the top. We even bumped into one of our sponsors’ of Muddy Chef.
Carnage, of course there was, we saw all different kinds, but without carnage where is the challenge. But there was one instance where you just have to hand out the award of “what were you thinking?”, Driver of a Landy minus brakes = totaling your front end, Driver came to event knowingly that his brakes were not in great shape but still proceeded to go wheeling anyways. After crushing his left front due to lack of braking on a downward slope, all the driver wanted to do was blame everyone else, “Here’s your sign”.
7. How do you plan to beat the competition this year at the Muddy Chef Challenge?
If everything is done proper, like having individual tents for each category with no more than 3 judges per tent, so that to eliminate long lines and food getting cold this event should be one of the best ever. You can’t always make everyone happy but each year you learn for the year before, and the biggest squawk was the long time to present to the judges Eric if you really want to make this an all-star event than we need to step it up and separate the judges into their respectable classes.
Which in turns creates less stress on all involved both participants and judges.
Make time for those who plan on doing both the standard competition and for those who are also competing in the iron / chopped/ top chef event.
So to answer the question fairly, if the above is accomplished then we as participants can let the food do the talking. We been preparing for this since the last event, our thinking and testing of recipes are from simple to way outside the box thoughts. It really isn’t about winning it’s about sharing the experience and bring them home with you. Pass the donuts please… ohhhh they were so good…..
So get ready judges, sit back, take a big bite, close your eyes and let us entertain your culinary pallets.
8. If you could ask Land Rover for a particular type of vehicle what would it be?
A vehicle similar to the defender 110 but with some larger tire options and make interior roll bars standard, for the Queens sake we all know that most of these are used for work or Fun. We are not purchasing them to sit in the driveway. We are men of means and with that said make one that we all can afford here and on the other side of the pond. Just use the data that Ford motor company did in the sixties, build a fun, smart looking and affordable vehicle, make your target the middle class and build hundreds of thousands of them and watch your sales and profits rise.
9. What upgrades/modifications does your Land Rover have?
As seen at the last event the 1964 has been slightly modified…lol, heck, it’s been over hauled to the max. let’s start with the 37 inch Maxis Trepador competition tires, under the bonnet is a Ford 302 punched out to 347, McClould clutch, Spidertrax housing front and rear, Spidertrax ultimate 60 knuckles with Spidertrax bearings, Spidertrax rotors and drive flange kit, Spidertrax 35 spline axils up front and Dutchman 35 spline in the back, Hi-9 s front and back with 4.56 gears, ARB air lockers , Atlas 3.8 transfer case, Tom Woods drive shafts, PSC full hydro double ended ram steering, Griffen Radiator. ARB compressor, Wilwood 4 piston calipers, Currie anti rock sway bar, Wilwood peddles , Out front is a RED Winch Hornet – S , 18 gallon fuel cell, King coilovers on all four corners, bump stops and Pro Comp limit straps. Lighting by Baja, Kirkey Seats and 4 point harness all custom metal work was laser cut at KAL Manufacturing, External cage, 4 link’s custom built by son Andy Liwush.
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10. If you were on safari what three people (living or dead) would you pick to bring along?
Bear Grylls, , to learn how to survive in all different situations
Thomas Jefferson, to have those star light campfire talks sipping on fine wines and tasting special preserves and talking about everything related to food.
Bill Clinton, for his love of Cigars… need we say more.
LIME ROCK PARK / Track Improvements
Last week I visited Lime Rock Park to check on the upgrades and changes to the track. Perhaps the most interesting change for Muddy Chef participants can be seen on the map below and highlighted in yellow. If you were with us last year, you may remember the hospitality tents were setup on a hillside. That hill is no longer there. The new paddock showers and bathrooms should be fantastic! I’ll post photos shortly.
Checkout the press release from Lime Rock below for more information.
Lime Rock spending millions as it builds a better competitor and sanctioning-body experience
LAKEVILLE, Conn. (April 16) – Lime Rock Park Track President Skip Barber recently committed more than $3 million to a wide variety of projects to significantly rebuild Lime Rock’s infrastructure, with a primary goal of providing vastly improved facilities to specifically benefit competitors and sanctioning bodies.
“We’re changing Lime Rock’s competitor-supporting infrastructure from pre-historic to near state of the art. And it will all be beautiful,” Barber said.
By early summer, the project will result in acres of trackside pavement significantly larger than at any time in Lime Rock’s history. The A- and B-Paddocks will be perfectly smooth asphalt and combined, there are 7 acres of paddock pavement. Both paddocks will also be attractively landscaped.
Not since Lime Rock Park’s race track surface itself was re-built in 2008 has a construction project of this magnitude been greenlighted at the famous 1.5-mile automotive and motorsports venue in Connecticut’s Northwest Corner. Some of these projects will be complete in time for Lime Rock’s season-opener – the Memorial Day Weekend Trans Am Series, and Royals Sunday Car Show, May 22-24 – and the rest in time for the IMSA TUDOR United SportsCar weekend July 24-25.
“In 2008, the track itself had to get done – it was exceedingly bumpy, it needed more guardrail, better run-off areas. Now we’ve addressed the paddocks in a significant, competitor-centric way,” Barber said.
“We’re doing what we need to do – what we want to do – to ensure the track’s professional racing future,” Barber says. “Major sports car races have defined Lime Rock since the day it opened, and I’m making sure that continues well into the future.
“It’s important to note that everything we’re doing, all the changes, all the improvements… all will make Lime Rock more useful, easier to navigate, more sensible – but all with an eye to making Lime Rock even more beautiful than it already is. I have no doubt that, just in the case of our paddocks, Lime Rock’s will be the most useful and attractive in the U.S.”
Of the multitude of Road to 60 projects underway, the highlights are…
A-Paddock
To be completely re-done and much larger, plus: laser-graded-and-paved to eliminate standing water; it will be landscaped; there’ll be defined spectator walkways and cobblestone curbing; and the roadways through the paddock will be much wider. The new A-Paddock is specifically designed to allow two complete race rigs, tractors included, to park in-line – with a walkway in between – from inside Big Bend up to Victory Circle. Additionally, it will provide large and extremely efficient driving exercise and hospitality acreage for automakers as well as other ride-and-drive, press day and driver-training clients.
April 2015: A-Paddock will have an attractive retention pond behind the all-new Big Bend inside guardrail
B-Paddock
To be completely re-done: Paved in its entirety (and also laser-graded to eliminate standing water), there’ll be much more usable space.
Hospitality Acreage
Manufacturers and teams now have choice of three large areas of Lime Rock property dedicated to corporate, race team and VIP hospitality. The popular Outfield hospitality acreage remains essentially the same but the existing hospitality area in the Infield (between the Chalets) has been significantly increased in size and laser-graded. The third is an exciting new hospitality area that overlooks the Righthander and No Name Straight. “The locations of our hospitality facilities will be second to none,” Barber says. Lime Rock also has three chalets, and multiple (and recently refurbished) trackside meeting rooms.
Infield Spectator Hillside
Completely re-done: Close to 100,000 square yards of earth was moved, re-contoured, re-sloped and/or removed to dramatically improve and expand the sightlines as well as make Lime Rock’s famous “picnic-blanket-and-lawn-chair” experience even more enjoyable. Thanks to the re-working of the hill, close to 45 percent of the track can now be seen from this Hillside – with just a turn of the head.
Additionally, the Infield Spectator Hillside has been extended all the way through the inside curve of the Righthander, creating an entirely new and exciting viewing area of No Name Straight and the Uphill. The Hillside reconfiguration has also allowed the spectator fencing to be moved even closer to the circuit in many locations.
A-Paddock Rest Rooms
The Men’s Room will be completely rebuilt – designed by Sam Posey and David Moore – and the Ladies Room totally refreshed.
Handicap Access
It will be improved and/or added throughout much of the facility.
Also: There’ll be a new PA system; expanded and robust wi-fi; improved cellular service; and improvements and expansions to the other spectator areas
PROFILE / Max Simmons
THE LAND ROVER MUDDY CHEF CHALLENGE
This week we interview attorney, new father, style icon and sunroof-less Discovery owner Max Simmons.
Proust/Solihull Questionnaire
1. If Land Rover made an aircraft would you fly in it? Why/Why Not?
I’d always trust a Land Rover to get me to the remotest location. I’d want an aircraft carrier there waiting for me in the event that it assumed the British position when I went to start it the next morning.
2. Tell us a little about your background, your career and where you live.
Blue-eyed blond welfare baby born to a teen single-mother in small-town central Illinois. After working my way through college (and I do mean working — ask me sometime about some of those jobs!) I spent nearly a decade working for non-profits and politicians in Wisconsin till opting for law-school. I now live in New Haven with my perfect wife, Abigail, and our perfect children, Emma-Marguerite and Francesco. My eyes are still blue but the hair is gray.
3. How many Land Rovers have you owned and which was your favorite?
My ’97 Discovery is my first. It’s perfect for me. Stepped roof, alpine windows, and super-robust frame and drivetrain echo the original safari-mobiles while the ABS, airbags, A/C and side-impact beams update it just enough (my friends say it’s perfect for me because it’s a little bit redneck and a little bit elitist). After a long region-wide search (I wanted one without sunroofs) I found it hibernating mostly rust-free in an East Haven garage. The owner bought it as a project that he never got around to starting.
4. What’s the best thing about owning a Land Rover?
Two things: (1) Seeing it waiting for me in the parking lot: It promises adventure and escape, even if only once in a while, and (2) the friendship with my mechanic.
5. What’s the worst thing about owning a Land Rover?
The friendship with my mechanic.
6. Been on an adventure? – tell us about it
Besides the Muddy Chef? So far the adventures have been the steep learning curve in roadside repairs using bubblegum and duct tape.
7. How do you plan to beat the competition this year at the Muddy Chef Challenge?
Lock Eric Archer and Chris Copeland in the basement till August 3rd.
8. If you could ask Land Rover for a particular type of vehicle what would it be?
An updated NAS Defender 110 (or a 130!). I’m a family guy, and I’d love to have a suitably sized Rover for hauling the whole herd into some more remote locations.
9. What upgrades/modifications does your Land Rover have?
TrueTrac diffs, front diff guard, JATE rings, and . . . new headliner!
10. If you were on safari what three people (living or dead) would you pick to bring along?
I probably should say Selous, Stanley and Schweitzer, but more likely I’d prefer Groucho Marx, Julia Child and Ansel Adams.
Hemmings Motor News covers The Muddy Chef Challenge!
Get Your Vintage Mud On!
Photo courtesy The Muddy Chef Challenge.
Owners of classic cars have more vintage race, rally and touring events to choose from than ever before these days. But what about owners of old-school, 4 x 4 off-road machines?
Fortunately, the crowd that loves to get dirty now has some options of their own.
The Muddy Chef Challenge, first contested at Vermont’s Mount Stowe in 2008, returns to Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Connecticut for the second year in a row and its fourth iteration overall from July 30 through August 2.
The organizers of the Copperstate 1000 vintage rally—now in its 25th year—have added an off-road event, the Copperstate Overland, with its inaugural running happening from October 18-21 in Arizona.
The Muddy Chef Challenge, which is open exclusively to Land Rover owners, combines camping, off-road challenges and a cooking challenge along with sporting clays target shooting and even a chance to get dolled up for a white linen cocktail party. The cost of registration is $75, plus $25 per night to camp at Lime Rock. But participants need to bring their own food, cigars and whatever other party supplies they might need for three days of hanging out with like-minded Land Rover enthusiasts.
The Muddy Chef Challenge seems not to take itself too seriously. Making friends, sharing food and playing around getting Land Rovers muddy—the way they should be—seem to be the goals of the organizers and participants alike.
The Copperstate Overland is open to more than just Land Rover owners (though we suspect that plenty of Rover owners will be involved), but anyone wishing to enter will need an off-road vehicle from the 1979 model year or older. At $6,850, the cost of the Copperstate Overland is quite a bit steeper than the Muddy Chef Challenge, but that price includes all meals and double-occupancy lodging for the driver and co-driver/navigator, including a final night’s stay after the rally and awards dinner the final night. A portion of every entry fee goes to benefit the Men’s Art Council of the Phoenix Art Museum.
In addition to not staying in tents for that significant entry fee, the Copperstate Overland will feature a mix of off-road and on-road rallying amid some very beautiful Arizona countryside that is a contrast to the potentially very muddy Lime Rock experience.
Different events for different tastes—and budgets, but both guaranteed to get your car dirty.
Twenty bucks off! at Mountain Khakis
KRMG TV / 2014 Land Rover Muddy Chef Event
The Land Rover Muddy Chef Challenge 3
Where
Lime Rock Park
497 Lime Rock Rd Rt 112
Lakeville, CT 06039
Upcoming
9:00 a.m. Thursday, July 31, 2014
Registration for the 2014 Land Rover Muddy Chef Challenge PLEASE NOTE – IF YOU DO NOT COMPLETELY FILL OUT THE REGISTRATION FORM AND COMPLETE THE “CONTACT THE ORGANIZER” SECTION YOUR REGISTRATION WILL BE CANCELLED. We need the info to register your vehicle and a way to contact you. A blind e-mail is not enough information for us to process your registration. Please provide the following information by clicking the “Contact The Organizer” button. The year and model Land Rover you will be driving. The name of your Challenge Meals (e.g. – Texas Tornado BBQ)If you would like to be located in the “family” areaIf you are bringing petsIf you have additional equipment (pop up awnings, etc)Please note, registration is limited so be sure to reserve your spot today!Be sure to visit www.muddychef.com for updates, news, challenges and more!If you have any questions please e-mail info@muddychef.com
Rovers North / OFFICIAL SPONSOR
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MOUNTAIN KHAKIS / OFFICIAL SPONSOR
Muddy Snack from Christopher Macecsko on Vimeo.
Crushed!
Classic Motorsports Magazine / Features The Muddy Chef Challenge
The Muddy Chef Challenge
Written by Ed Higginbotham
Hey, all you folks out there in Lime Rock Park Land, are any of you a Land Rover owner?
If you Land Rover/Range Rover you are invited. Whether it’s from the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s or—okay, you get it—any model from any era, brand-spankin’ new included, you are invited.
And can you drive a decent grill?
Because if you own a Land Rover/Range Rover of any stripe and you enjoy making excellent food “on the road”—think The Great Race meets Top Chef—you definitely want to sign up for the Lime Rock Park-hosted Muddy Chef Challenge 3, July 31 through August 3.
Did we mention that proceeds benefit Autism Speaks, one of the great charitable organizations out there?
First come, first served, so get to clicking.
https://classicmotorsports.net/
https://classicmotorsports.net/news/the-muddy-chef-challenge/
Horribly British
WANT TO BE A SPONSOR?
Interested in becoming a Sponsor or Vendor at the Muddy Chef Challenge? Be sure to visit our Sponsor section for more information. Alternately just send an e-mail to info@muddychef.com and we will respond to you within 24 hours with a sponsor information package.
Real Merchandise! Muddy Chef 3 Stickers
Ok, enough goofing around with phony $100,000 tables and spork holders! We are finally getting around to the real deal! The first item we have is a high quality sticker for your vehicle. It’s UV coated, guaranteed not to fade and perfect to enhance your off-road street credibility!
One for $3.00
Two for $5.00
The stickers will be available for purchase June 1 at British by the Sea and on this website shortly thereafter.
Stay tuned. We are prepping event T-Shirts, Off-Road Safari Style Shirts, Hats and Water bottles.
MCC Exclusive / Mobile Kitchen
COST: $42,000
Tired of being beaten by a frustrated Culinary School/Top Chef Dropout? Want bragging rights and the respect of your peers? Then look no further than The Muddy Chef Challenge Mobile Kitchen. While this is technically a violation of the rules of the MCC3, effective bribery of select officials will allow you to compete with pride. We have specially modified this trailer to meet the vigorous demands of off-road gourmet activities.
- 6″ Lift with Old Man Emu Gas Shocks and Old Man Emu Springs
- Rovertym sliders with NATO recovery loops
- 2″ thick steel plating across the entire bottom of trailer (IED protection)
- Nato Trailer Hitch and D-Shackles
- Gun ports, gas mask racks, weapons racks, utensil racks, etc.
| The 24’ trailer comes with a host of standard features and includes cooking equipment to meet your needs. Trailers come standard in black, red, white, green, blue, or yellow. But what’s critically important is to stand out in the crowd and make it your own. Let us help your personality shine through with customized graphic wraps. Please contact us at 800-Mud-Chef |
Official Site – Lime Rock Park
NEW EVENT LOCATION AND ADDITIONAL DAY!
The seven wonders of the world – Muddy Chef Style
PHOTO: Seven Wonders of The World
What is the 8th Wonder of The World?
THE NEW SITE LOCATION OF THE MUDDY CHEF CHALLENGE.
IT’S SO BIG WE ADDED ANOTHER DAY TO THE EVENT. NOW – JULY 31, AUGUST 1,2,3 2014.
WATCH THIS SPACE FOR UPDATES – COMING SOON!
Photos, photos, and photos…..
Muddy Chef Challenge Posting on Guns and Rovers
Muddy Chef Challenge 3 – August 1,2,3 Mystic/North Stonington CT
Yahoo! We just finalized the dates for the 2014 Land Rover Muddy Chef Challenge. August 1,2,3 2014. We are looking for a place to have the event and your suggestions would be welcome. Last year it was at the Mystic, CT KOA Campground. Which was both good and bad.
On the good side, we had electricity, running water, pool, places for the kids to play, etc. It was close to the trails. On the bad side we had nowhere enough room and it was kind of a pain for our friends to visit, etc. Also, as we booked the event really late last year there were not enough campgrounds and it was a bit crowded.
So, I’m searching for an alternative site but planning to use the KOA as a backup. I’d like to have room to stretch out and build a really big bonfire!
We have a website up www.muddychef.com and I’d invite everyone to visit and be patient as we get things running. There will be a registration page soon and a bunch of other neat stuff.
One of the biggest problems I had last year was getting info on the attendees and their vehicles (my fault), also my awards cameraman was “in his cups” so the awards video (who got what and for what) vanished and I’d have liked to have had that.
As always, this is a firmly grassroots event. We ain’t tryin to make a profit. I’ll keep the costs as close to zero as possible.
For now, can I get either “I will come” or “I want to come” or a “Hell no, I ain’t coming”
Also, your suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
We are excited for August!
VIDEO – Muddy Chef 1 Awards Ceremony
Fred at The Land Rover Muddy Chef Challenge
Video Credit: Calef @ RoversNorth
More from 2008 Muddy Chef Challenge
The Land Rover Muddy Chef Challenge – June 6,7,8 2008 – Stowe, VT
Land Rover Muddy Chef Challenge 2013
The 2013 Muddy Chef Challenge
PREMIER SPONSOR / GSPS
