Ab Initio 16
Ab Initio 16 course got off to a slightly delayed start due to a late arrival, but we were able maintain a good pace and complete the theoretical component of the course and schedule.
By the time we started the first driving lesson for the day – straight cresting – the mild overcast weather had turned sultry. The somewhat apprehensive group completed the first challenge with ease, so we quickly moved on to larger dunes to practice higher crossings. It wasn’t long before our sweeper was called into action for the first of many recoveries during the morning session. As the morning progressed the trainees began to connect with their vehicles and started to get more comfortable with crossing larger dunes and desert driving in general.
Marshall Marc treated the convoy to a delicious lunch in an idyllic shaded setting that was teaming with bird life. The group took this opportunity to unwind from the excitement of their morning adventures and were energized for the afternoon session.
After a quick warm up, the group was briefed on the proper execution of a side-slope, and they took to it like ducks to water. Sadly, one of the trainees had to be escorted out of the desert at this stage due to a technical problem with his car.
The rest of the group continued to practice until they were able to execute side-slopes while driving in convoy formation. By the end of the afternoon we were meandering up and dune faces like one cohesive unit. The drive ended with a quick de-brief and our trainees headed off into the sunset with adrenaline still coursing through their veins.
Congratulations Ab Initio 16! It was very pleasing to witness the progress of this group and I look forward to seeing you all on the sand soon.
Thanks for all the support in preparation for this Ab Initio and the great lunch Marshall Marc. Hussam (SL) and Johann (SL), you guys did an amazing job of keeping the convoy safe. A big shout out to the rest of the support team, and Martin for the photos
7 comments on Ab Initio 16
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It still amazes me how well the Desert Fellas training works. Taking people with no off-roading experience, struggling to do a straight crest to having them do side slopes like pros in one day!! Just Brilliant!! It was a great day out! Thank you to everyone involved.
This was a real treat for me, I got to go on 3 drive on this day! From a early off-roader drive to the Ab Initio and 2 prospect drives. The team work and comradery of this group was something special. Congratulations on completing Ab Initio all, looking forward to the Basic training drive with you all.
An amazing day with Preggy, Marc and the rest of the team. I did a lot of research into different groups and chose Desert Fellas for their strong principles around off roading and the desert. I learnt a huge amount in one day about safety, equipment, driving in the dunes and my car! An amazing day with some great people! It was a pleasure to meet you all, I hope to be able to complete the junior level training now!
Looking forward to driving with you again James! Hopefully soon!
It was a great day and learned a lot. Within one day I got from basic driving in the sand to confident straight cresting and side sloping. You get to learn the theory, hit the sand and then get feedback while driving from the experienced team. In this one day Iearned more than over the weeks or even months with other clubs. Looking forward to start junior training soon.
Thanks to Preggy, Marc, Husam, Johann and all the others supporting.
I hope you managed to get your car sorted. Sorry you missed the end of the drive.
Great Ab Initio 16 with the group, learnt a ton about the fundamentals of desert driving in a convoy and how to properly tackle a dune. Great to find a group which takes the time to actively teach to make better drivers 👍 Loved the range of challenges and the ability to repeat challenges a few times to make sure you get the feel. Would love to learn more from the Desert Fellas! Thanks guys