2019 Rugged Ridge Baja - Third Build Day
The third Industrial Arts Therapy automotive build put on by the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer was a success. On Feb. 16, 2019, the children and foundation staff made progress on the vehicle by adding chrome door handles, wiring the lights, test fitting bumpers and luggage racks, turning the cold air return on, and installing a winch. These alterations test the children’s team building skills, cognitive function, and motor skills, all while provoking a passion for learning that helps patients recover physically, mentally and socially after treatment.
The third build day was held at Truck N’ Trailer USA, who has graciously provided space for the foundation’s multiple Industrial Arts Therapy projects. During this build, the children were able to accomplish many modifications thanks to generous donations made by Rugged Ridge, Milwaukee Tools, Gear Wrench, Chicago Pneumatic and Wizards.
Rugged Ridge provided the Nautic Winch, which will allow for extra pulling power up to 12,500 lbs. They also provided a Cold Air Intake kit that will boost performance, a Throttle Body Spacer which will optimize power by drawing in colder denser air and a Chrome Door Handle kit to add to the design of the Jeep.
This car will be the third vehicle built by the Foundation, with pediatric cancer patients and their families providing the labor for the modifications. The build will be modified into a 2019 Rugged Ridge Baja. Rugged Ridge®/OMIX-ADA®, Inc., a Truck Hero company, has provided the necessary parts to complete the modifications required for the transformation. Rugged Ridge®/Omix-ADA®, Inc. is the world’s largest independent manufacturer and wholesaler of Jeep®, truck, and off-road parts, accessories, and floor liners.
The last 2019 build date will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Truck N’ Trailer USA on March 16. The 2019 Rugged Ridge Baja will be revealed to the public at the 2019 Jeep Beach event in April at Daytona International Speedway with Rugged Ridge®/Omix-ADA®, Inc.
