The launch of the GeoStash contest started with the Nov. '05 issue (Vol. 21, No. 11). For those of you picking up this magazine for the first time, hidden somewhere in these pages are two GPS coordinates (lat./lon.). The coordinates will not be hidden in the magazine's ads. Once you find the coordinates in these pages, they will pinpoint a location somewhere in the continental U.S. Hidden at that location is a laser-cut steel plate (marker). When the marker is found and redeemed with me, the lucky contestant will win a very cool prize donated by one of our advertisers. Attached to the marker is a disposable camera; take a photo of yourself at the location of the marker and send it to me, although I would really prefer a digital image if you have the capability.
It is VERY IMPORTANT that you check our website's GeoStash page (www.4wdandsportutility.com) before you run off hunting for the marker. I can't stress this enough. The webpage is updated almost daily regarding the status of each month's marker. It also contains the full rules and regulations of the contest. On this page you will also find important clues about the coordinates hidden in the magazine. Keep in mind that some of the trail adventure articles and tech reviews in the magazine contain lat./lon. coordinates which may or may not be part of the GeoStash contest. The GeoStash page on our website will tell you which coordinates are not part of the contest.
4 Wheel Drive & Sport Utility Magazine is holding this event for 12 issues starting with Nov. '05 and running though Sept. '06. If the marker is not found any given month, the prize will be donated to a four-wheel-drive club of our choosing to be raffled off at an event of said club's choice. Primedia and 4WD&SU magazine cannot and will not be responsible for damaged or broken vehicles while out on the trail, personal injury, or wasted time. You are assuming all responsibility and liability by participating. Be safe, be smart, and keep your vehicles on the trail. Responsible four-wheeling and concern for the environment are key factors for us, and should be for you too. No fighting, biting, scratching, clawing, or whining over the marker. I will not take any calls from people who think they were cheated. Only one prize per individual; no multiple wins. Some locations where the marker has been hidden may require an entrance fee or day pass. You are responsible for any fees and/or obtaining passes.
No purchase necessary to enter or win. A purchase does not improve your chances of winning. The contest is open to anyone 18 years of age or older as of September 15, 2005. Participants must be a legal resident of the 48 continental United States or the District of Columbia. The contest begins at 12:00:01 a.m. E.T. on September 15, 2005, and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. E.T. on August 15, 2006 ("Promotion Period"). The contest is subject to Official Rules which are available at www.4wdandsportutility.com. Full and complete contest details (including how-to-enter instructions) are also available at this website.
We would like to thank Finish Line Products for laser-cutting the trail markers. For information on its products and services, e-mail: finishlinepros@yahoo.com.