THE LAND ROVER MUDDY CHEF CHALLENGE
This week we are interviewing Muddy Chef competitor (and category winner) ) Eric Archer
Proust/Solihull Questionnaire
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If Land Rover made an aircraft would you fly in it? Why/Why Not?
Sure! Experts with aluminum, strong build qualities. Although I would be quite concerned about the environmental impact of all the leaking oil!
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Tell us a little about your background, your career and where you live.
Live in Rhode Island with my wife (Linda). Our son went to University of Vermont and still lives there after graduating. Our daughter starts working in Boston with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in September. I’m enjoying retirement after a fulfilling career in the staffing & recruitment industry. Spending my time bicycling and 109 restoration.
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How many Land Rovers have you owned and which was your favorite?
Three. Defender 90, Defender 110 and recently acquired 1959 Series II 109 station wagon. Currently working hard to restore the 109 with hopes of bringing it to the Muddy Chef! This is clearly my favorite; a direct correlation to the hours, joys and tears currently being invested!!
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What’s the best thing about owning a Land Rover?
Unique, rugged, timeless; and they come with membership into the informal (but real) club of Land Rover owners. It’s a culture…might even say a cult!
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What’s the worst thing about owning a Land Rover?
Fortunately, I haven’t experienced the constant breaking down that I often hear about. Expect this may change when the 109 is on the road?? Worst thing is my backside is a few sizes too large for the driver’s seat and drivers seating compartment. How come the driver’s seat doesn’t slide back further!!
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Been on an adventure? – tell us about it
Land Rover adventure? Life adventure? Been on both….. “What happens on adventure Stays on adventure”
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How do you plan to beat the competition this year at the Muddy Chef Challenge?
My wife and children showed little to no interest in attending the Muddy Chef last year, so I invited Chris Copeland (a neighbor) to join me last year. Ends up he’s not only a car guy but a Foodie!! Chris is joining me again in 2015!!
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If you could ask Land Rover for a particular type of vehicle what would it be?
Keep producing Defenders!
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What upgrades/modifications does your Land Rover have?
Not much. Pretty much stock.
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If you were on safari what three people (living or dead) would you pick to bring along?
Marlin Perkins (Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom) – Guide and expert. Enjoy, understand and avoid being eaten!
Ernest Shackleton – Bring us home despite conditions or equipment
Robin Williams – to entertain us at the evening campfires OR Tarzan for that special bond and translation skills!
