Caterpillar Operator Challenge Finals 2008

“The rain in Spain falls mainly in the Plain”, goes the famous old saying. But the reality seems to be that it mainly falls on the Caterpillar Malaga Demonstration Center. It was a wet Saturday and Malaga was experiencing almost tropical style rain. This in a region which is famed for being a sunny tourist highlight for all of Northern Europe. But that didn’t stop the planes bringing the Competitors, their Supporters, and the Press. It didn’t stop the preparations, but it will stop the Competition if it doesn’t dry up soon..

So, what’s the problem? Don’t Caterpillar machines work in the rain? Well, YES, actually they do:

In fact there are legends of Caterpillar Machines sinking into mudholes, falling into lakes, and other such. When these machines were finally recovered, in some cases years later, a turn of the key started that machine again. Urban legend? Please comment if you have anything to say on this, we’d love to hear it.

BUT, however comfortable Cat equipment and technology (and maybe some highly evolved operators) is in the wet, Rain will stop the competition. This is because rain makes the competition unfair. As you know – dirt, sand, and even fine gravel changes when water is added to the mix, making it heavier, sloppier, and different to drive in. If the dirt is dry for the first competitors and then rain strikes after they are finished, those who come later are automatically at a disadvantage. Some say life is unfair, but true competition keeps the rules the same for everyone. Caterpillar’s corporate values wouldn’t have it any other way!