Event: SideCresting Sweihan ADV 20-Sept

[loefflmj1]

Event: Sidecresting Sweihan ADV 20-Sept

Lead: Mark Loeffler
Marshal Support: Francis
Explorer Support: Kman
Advanced Drivers: Rene, Kamran and Christian

Early afternoon of Sept 20, 2019, we all met essentially on time at the BBQ point for my first time lead on an Advance trip. After deflation, I provided a safety briefing and trip plan where we discussed the hazards of side-cresting and proper technique. Francis chimed in with some very helpful tips. The convoy order was set as Mark (Lead), Francis (Second Lead), Kamran, Christian, followed by Rene and Kman (Sweeper). A radio check was performed and we were off immediately hitting the dunes to the north heading east. This was the warmup phase and it was needed as we had two stucks and successful recoveries on the top of the first sidecrest.

After crossing the powerline we headed to the larger dunes slightly west of Nagra. From there headed to Nagra, where some joined in for safe play. We headed back to the farm (Kman and Francis traded convoy positions) where the plan was to exit at Gate 12, side sloping and cresting the whole way. One driver experienced a problem with possibly a CV joint and so was escorted to gatch by Francis. Upon his return, we continued the trip to some larger dunes to the south east which eventually led us westerly until we had had enough and took the gatch to Gate 12 for inflation.

The drivers did very well handling their vehicles safely and in control. I saw nothing of concern. Christian handled a recovery with ease. Kamran made a great self recovery at the top of a crest with the verbal cues coming from Francis. Rene was very helpful providing assistance and guidance from the back. I want to thank Francis for Marshal support without it the trip would not have occurred. Thank you Kman for all your driving that day to provide additional experience for my first lead. Thank you guys for joining my trip. I would welcome any comments and suggestions as I am a “newbie” Lead and want to continually improve.
Great day! All safe and sound. See you soon out there.

Mark
DFG

[kman]

A trip well done Mark. I had a great time with all of you!