The Tundra was completely redesigned and the new Sequoia went on sale last October – both entered in last year’s competition. Why were these two vehicles chosen to compete, and are there any new features we might be interested in learning about?

It has been an exciting few years for Toyota Trucks —The Tundra launch was just a precursor to what’s to come, and with Sequoia out, we thought what better opportunity to put these two vehicles to the test!

Rebelle Rally breaks down off-roading to its most simplistic level – bare grit and precision. Even with their most advanced features stripped down, the Tundra and Sequoia both embody the required capability and durability needed to navigate the challenging and ever-changing terrains ahead. These vehicles are a testament to Toyota’s commitment to producing reliable and high-performing vehicles that can handle even the toughest driving conditions.

Congrats on Team #152’s podium finish! Samantha and Becky were the 2021 4×4 Rookies of the Year, and placed third in the 2022 4×4 class. Are there any particular experiences they’ve filled you in on that standout during these two years? (fun or transformative – or both!)

Becky Brophy: There are so many moments that I can vividly recall… One of the overarching feelings for me is teamwork. Sam and I depended on each other tremendously throughout the competitions.

First and foremost, she depends on me to be a safe driver. It’s my responsibility to be vigilant and anticipate hazards, ensuring that we take the safest path to our destination… For our sake, as well as our 3rd teammate, the vehicle. Additionally, I need to navigate the terrain efficiently while keeping a close eye landscape as we progress.

Sam’s job is to constantly monitor our location on the map, devise strategies on which checkpoints to go after and how to reach them, ensure that I am following the route she planned, check that our odometer is correctly calibrated, and ensure that we are on schedule. One of the most memorable scenarios is from the first day of our first rally. It was toward the end of the day, and we were in high spirits, feeling confident in our progress but mindful of the time remaining. While driving through a wash in search of an exit, I pushed past a bush and collided with large rock hidden behind it, causing the truck to lift off of the ground by the running boards and come to an abrupt stop. It was at this moment that our teamwork became crucial.

We were going through “tools” in our “toolbox” (4WD, 4LO, diff lock, traction boards, forward, reverse) and it seemed like nothing was going to get us out. We were brainstorming other ideas and finally used a rock to get more traction and lift the vehicle up enough to get us out. That stressful 15 minutes felt like 2 hours, but we ended up making the rest of our checkpoints for the day and returned back to base camp in one piece. I’m still proud of how we handled that challenge together and without allowing the tension between us to compound the problem.

Samantha Barber: Becky covered the teamwork portion of the Rally perfectly.

I love when Becky and I find black checkpoints. Each one is validation that we do know how to navigate and drive – and play the game.

One thing about Rebelle that is super special to me is each night when we return to basecamp. When we cross under the arch and the tension of the day gets to flood way. What’s done is done and there is a tent FULL of amazing people to be surrounded by with no distractions. The staff and other competitors welcome you with open arms and share with you the joys and tears of the day.