By Stephen Smoot
Saturday offered a special kind of morning to those competing, or simply participating in and enjoying, the “24 Hours of Appalachia” event. On that cool morning, one would rather hear “Foggy Mountain Breakdown” than personally experience it.
After 8 a.m., a steady stream of specialized four-wheeled vehicles, sturdy pickups, sports utility vehicles and others roared to life. As the sun rose behind Seneca Rocks, brightly illuminating the fog rising from the river, they took off from Yokum’s and Harpers’ Old Country Store. Vehicles, one by one, rumbled north on West Virginia Route 28, looking for the backroad path that will eventually lead them to Point Pleasant on the Ohio River.
For three years, Backroads of Appalachia has held its “24 Hours of Appalachia” event that runs between Seneca Rocks and Point Pleasant, but alternates starting and ending between the two annually. Participants range from Class A participants who have done “24 HOA” previously, Class B, who have not, and Class C.
Class A and Class B participants generally regard the event as a race and look to qualify for other events. Class C participants are described in the informational literature as those who say, “Who cares! You just want to have fun!” Vehicles allowed to participate are either side by sides or full size vehicles. The first two classes get to leave first, while Class C must wait a short time to let those with the competitive spirit forge ahead.
In only a few years, the event has grown into a popular mainstay for off-road enthusiasts in and out of state. From Greenbrier and Monroe counties came Ashley Morrow and Sabrina Dowdy. Dowdy explained that “we get to raise money for charity and have fun at the same time!”
Funds raised from the event benefit the Children’s Home Society and also the Backroads of Appalachia organization.
Morrow explained that one of the most vital skills comes in how participants manage time. The route stretches, for the most part, over one lane tar and gravel and dirt roads.
For safety purposes, the Backroads of Appalachia organization has a long list of requirements in terms of legal documentation for drivers and vehicles, also both side by sides and full-size vehicles must meet safety requirements. Participants must have food, water, safety equipment, and co-drivers. Following guidelines means the difference between a harrowing experience or a “thrilling and unforgettable adventure.”
From Northern Virginia came a trio of enthusiasts, Jared Austin, Richard Dunn, and Jonathan Brenco. They came with a 2024 Ford Bronco decked out and decorated for the occasion. Austin shared that he enjoyed “getting out and enjoying the beautiful countryside of West Virginia.”
The group has taken on other challenges posed by Backroads of Appalachia during the years, including runs near Hinton and in Kentucky. They also have placed second in their class for two years in competition, but continue to hone their skills for better performance.
The men described the allure of the fraternal feelings that develop among participants. Dunn remarked, “Nothing beats getting out in the woods with your boys!”
As a final word, all three wanted to emphasize to West Virginians living on and near the marked routes that “we appreciate the hospitality. We respect your land and treat it like our own.”
