So we showed up stock and ran our first lap on the back half of the course. It was a fantastic experience, but we immediately recognized the need for some added protection.
Went and talked to the Ready Lift guys at their trailer and ended up getting their rear bump stop kit with 2.5" Fox bump shocks. Man, did that make a huge difference with the way the truck felt and reacted to landings. Although we were still cautious with pushing the stock shocks too far, getting a little air and landing it smoothly was worth the price.
The guys at Ready Lift were happy to install the kit even though the truck was a muddy mess and the ground was saturated. They even swapped out all of my tires/rims as I bought a set, used, from another member.
Great experience all around for me.