FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOLSOM (Feb. 19, 2008) – The Capital City Mountain Goat Four-Wheel Drive Club has announced that it will conduct its first 2008 four-wheel drive, hands-on safety clinics on Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13 at the Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area, located approximately 20 miles east of Sacramento.

Sport utility vehicle (SUV) and other four-wheel drive owners interested in attending this one-day clinic may choose either date. The clinics begin each morning at 8 a.m. at the Prairie City park headquarters.

Four-wheeling is a different kind of driving that opens up a whole new world for exploration and adventure. Four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than a regular two-wheel drive automobile and have been designed to get you in and out of tough spots in the backcountry.

Thousands of Californians are buying into the SUV market; however, the majority of these owners do not have the expertise or the confidence to take their vehicle off road.

The Prairie City clinic begins with classroom instruction, followed by several hours of memorable hands-on driving instruction at the off-highway vehicle park, where students encounter many simulated obstacles similar to those they might find while driving in the high Sierra or other remote off road areas.

Students will learn how to "walk" their vehicle, how to drive over trails and large rocks, how to drive in the snow, and how to use a tow strap should they get stuck in the mud or snow.

The clinic also teaches students about the importance of obeying the rules and environmental concerns in the in the backcountry. Instructors continually discuss the importance of treading lightly, not disturbing wildlife and staying on designated roads and trails.

Cost for the one-day course is $60 for each student-driver and $5 for each ride-along passenger. For those choosing to pay at the clinic, the cost if $65 per student.

The Prairie City park is located south of Highway 50. Take the Prairie City Road exit and continue south on Prairie City Road to White Rock Road. Take a right hand turn on White Rock Road and watch for the entrance to the park on the left hand side of the road.

To reserve space in the upcoming April clinic or for more information, contact Carol Moreland at (916) 455-9930 or visit the club’s website at www.ccmg4wd.org.

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