If your rig ever broke down at Windrock OHV Area or anywhere else where D.A. "Driver" Young wheeled his CJ-7, then it's likely that D.A. was the guy who got you rolling again. And he didn't just help individuals. D.A. is a man of the sport of four-wheeling and has always been on the forefront of efforts to ensure that the people of the southeastern U.S. will have continued use of their 4x4 trails for years to come. He's a founding member of the Southeast Four-Wheel Drive Association (SFWDA) and the Rattlerock Off-Road Club - both of which spend a great deal of time building and maintaining local trails.
Considering the tales I was told of this individual, you'd think him an invincible giant. Unfortunately for all of us, however, he is not as invincible as we'd like to believe. Shortly after selling his business and settling into retirement, Mr. Young was diagnosed with an astrocytoma brain tumor that has left him largely dependent on his family and friends. That's when all of those he'd selflessly aided through the years came together to give something back to the man who never turned down a chance to help someone out.
The groups that he helped spawn and a few sponsors organized the D.A. Young Appreciation Ride, held at Windrock OHV Area last March. The event drew more than 300 vehicles and countless more passengers and spectators for a day of organized trail runs and free-for-all fun at the Oliver Springs, Tennessee, off-road park. Amid the ample wheeling opportunities, the day was filled with reunions between old friends and the meeting of new, with nearly every attendee sharing some personal experience involving Mr. Young helping them get out of one sticky situation or another. Most of the stories involved being rescued by D.A. because of his having either the part, tools, or know-how to complete the repairs, while some of the stories described experiences where D.A. even scrapped his plans for a fun day at the trails to tow a stranger out to the trailhead and help him get his rig back home. There were also plenty of stories detailing D.A.'s off-trail driving abilities. If you needed a tow - be it 5 miles or 500 - you knew who to call. D.A. was always ready and willing to offer a helping hand.
Give A Hand
Though the event raised much needed funds to aid in Mr. Young's treatment, there's always room for more. If D.A. saved your tail once before, or even if you never met him, you'll do a great service to a great man by helping out. Donations can be sent to the following address in the name of D.A. Young. A PayPal account has also been established and can be accessed through www.rattlerock.org.
Donations for D.A. Young can be sent to:American Fidelity Bank2747 E. Broadway Ave.Maryville, TN 37804