For Mike and Troy Bailey, rock crawling is a family affair. In just over four years of professional competition, Mike and his 29-year-old son have racked up an impressive array of victories, including strong showings at this year’s UROC events.
Several factors contribute to their winning record, according to Mike, who says they approach tough courses with great faith in their Maxxis Creepy Crawler tires: “You’ve got to have the right tire and you’ve got to have a tough tire. I’d recommend Maxxis. I can’t hurt a Maxxis – I’ve never hurt one yet.”
Rock crawling is not a sport for those afraid of a challenge. But the Baileys relish the chance to overcome tough obstacles, practicing and refining their vehicle “all the time. You’ve got to outperform yourself every time you go out there,” Mike says. “Your rig is your performance.” The Baileys always keep in mind that their competition is talented and hardworking – and ready to pounce on any weakness.
The close relationship of father and son is another element in the Bailey’s success. Mike can get signals from Troy, who works as his spotter, simply by scanning the expression on his face. “Sometimes it’s almost like I can read his mind,” Mike says. And faith in Troy is critical, according to Bailey: “I know he’ll put everything into keeping me on four wheels. When you get out there and you’re hanging off a ledge, you’ve got to have a spotter you trust 100%.”
Troy was responsible for the Bailey’s initial foray into rock crawling, watching an event and later telling Mike, “Dad, you’ve never seen anything like this.” Intrigued, Mike bought books and videos to get started, and just a few years later, the entire Bailey family is involved in the sport – if not as participants, then as enthusiastic spectators
The Bailey family, which includes Mike’s wife Kathy, Troy’s three sisters, spouses, and 12 grandchildren, attends every rock crawling event. For the Baileys, rock crawling and family should continue to go hand-in-hand for years to come.
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