Re: All Newbie Full Fun
Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2024 12:03 pm
Wow, Sweihan is a special place!
So firstly, sorry for the late report. I've had a week of chaos from trying to manage tax returns mixed in with massive water leaks at home, so it's nice to finally have a moment to reflect on the joys we all share out in the sand.
...and what joy it was, and as always with a number of firsts:
First time driving our new 'toy', Betty (Blue).
First time towards the back dealing with the chewed up soft sand.
First time calling @alshamsi_m "Ramsey" (long story)!
Sweihan seems to be just that bit further away than other drives I've done, but it is sooooo worth it. The last time I had the pleasure as a first-timer driving there it had just rained so we were treated to a firm crust of sand with soft sand beneath and gathering in the dips. This time it was just soft, soft, soft, which, for those of us towards the rear brought the challenges of the choppiness it brings.
I tried to focus of maintaining an optimum distance from the car in front, trying to anticipate their speed to maintain my spacing using throttle control (proactive) over braking (reactive). Allowing the vehicle ahead a bit more space leading up to the arks so that I could be sure of their safe exit before I entered.
A mid-way stop at the foot of Nagra dune allowed the intermediates to 'play', and stretch their legs like s group of puppies let out of the house for 15 minutes. Allowing the rest of us to not only realise that we still have plenty to learn, but also reflect on the club's sensible and experienced approach to safety in not allowing newbies on such a dune.
After our final rest stop @alshamsi_m politely asked @Solmaz if she "wanted to work", and after a cautious "yes" 'Ramsey' ;) had a glint in his eye as he "okay, let's go!". And sure enough, within a matter of minutes @Solmaz was called in for the first stuck, and then the second, and then the third...
Work she did!
So what a drive it was. Another great memory made by the Almost4x4 family. It allowed us a huge variety of terrain to challenge ourselves and develop our skills. Stunning scenery. Chances to witness the skills we may have if we follow the guidance of our mentors and continue to develop in the right direction, and once again to learn from our many mistakes but in a safe and controlled environment.
Thank you to all of you who work very hard to allow us to all share such wonderful experiences together!
Until next time!
So firstly, sorry for the late report. I've had a week of chaos from trying to manage tax returns mixed in with massive water leaks at home, so it's nice to finally have a moment to reflect on the joys we all share out in the sand.
...and what joy it was, and as always with a number of firsts:
First time driving our new 'toy', Betty (Blue).
First time towards the back dealing with the chewed up soft sand.
First time calling @alshamsi_m "Ramsey" (long story)!
Sweihan seems to be just that bit further away than other drives I've done, but it is sooooo worth it. The last time I had the pleasure as a first-timer driving there it had just rained so we were treated to a firm crust of sand with soft sand beneath and gathering in the dips. This time it was just soft, soft, soft, which, for those of us towards the rear brought the challenges of the choppiness it brings.
I tried to focus of maintaining an optimum distance from the car in front, trying to anticipate their speed to maintain my spacing using throttle control (proactive) over braking (reactive). Allowing the vehicle ahead a bit more space leading up to the arks so that I could be sure of their safe exit before I entered.
A mid-way stop at the foot of Nagra dune allowed the intermediates to 'play', and stretch their legs like s group of puppies let out of the house for 15 minutes. Allowing the rest of us to not only realise that we still have plenty to learn, but also reflect on the club's sensible and experienced approach to safety in not allowing newbies on such a dune.
After our final rest stop @alshamsi_m politely asked @Solmaz if she "wanted to work", and after a cautious "yes" 'Ramsey' ;) had a glint in his eye as he "okay, let's go!". And sure enough, within a matter of minutes @Solmaz was called in for the first stuck, and then the second, and then the third...
Work she did!
So what a drive it was. Another great memory made by the Almost4x4 family. It allowed us a huge variety of terrain to challenge ourselves and develop our skills. Stunning scenery. Chances to witness the skills we may have if we follow the guidance of our mentors and continue to develop in the right direction, and once again to learn from our many mistakes but in a safe and controlled environment.
Thank you to all of you who work very hard to allow us to all share such wonderful experiences together!
Until next time!