IT’S A JEEP THING.

by Dave Charles

“Most people who drive Jeeps are passionate about them. They crane their necks to study an old CJ5 rolling by on tires and wheels worth more than the rest of the Jeep itself. They slow down to pass (very slowly to get a good long look) a new 4-door Unlimited with all the factory goodies, or a sexy looking 2-door Rubicon sporting a ridiculous range of aftermarket accessories. Jeeps are the most customisable vehicles on the market and the range of accessories available for them is seemingly endless.

The Jeep “mystique” is very powerful... you just get a sense that something is different when you own one. Jeeps require regular maintenance and upkeep and that’s all part of the attraction. One of the great things about them is their inherent ruggedness and durability. However, most jeep owners won’t leave well enough alone and can’t help adding new and better parts, equipment and accessories.

The slogan “It’s a Jeep thing...you wouldn’t understand” clearly states the Jeep lovers position (well, maybe that’s not so clear after all). Then how about this – it goes back to what excites us and makes us feel more alive...the passion!

Being out in the bush or just tooling around the back roads or national parks gives you a feeling of what freedom is all about, especially in a durable vehicle capable of taking you to places you might never have been able to see otherwise.

Yes, I love Jeeps and I would hazard a guess that I am not alone. Albie DeWitt is one of the most active members of the Ballito Jeep Club and epitomises the spirit of the diehard Jeep lover.

After a successful thirty-year career in banking, Albie retired to Ballito because he wanted to enjoy the people, the weather, and the relaxed lifestyle that this part of the world has to offer. The best way to do this, he discovered, was to buy a Jeep which he did two years ago, and it completely changed his life.

He joined the North Coast 4x4 Club here with the aim of starting a new off-road lifestyle to experience the beauty of the KZN North Coast and to meet people also interested in off roading.

“I am enjoying it thoroughly and cannot wait to explore more of our beautiful surrounds here in the region of Ballito every week.”

You go, Albie – we are right behind you!

JEEP CLUB SA

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