I arrived at Area 5 at about noon on Friday, and met up with a few of the guys. Ron invited me to ride with him on a pre-run to stake the two trail routes. I enjoyed talking with Ron, getting to know him and learning a more about the club. The SVRA park has changed a bit since I was there last.
After returning to Area 5, I found a quiet spot in a corner and set up my camp site. That evening was the pot-luck, and once the sun went down the breeze cooled things off a lot, so I took advantage of the fire before the movie started.
Saturday morning started early, and as expected, participants began to arrive about 7:00 AM. I was assigned to "shadow" people on the inspection team, which I found very enlightening. I learned a few things about what to look for, along with the pros and cons of various factory and after market accessories.
After a very long break during the participant training window, I was assigned to assist with the Stair Step obstacle. I took up a position at the bottom, and spent the rest of the afternoon learning some valuable lessons from Dick. We both worked constantly to keep the dust down by sweeping some of the dirt from the obstacle.
I was super impressed with the ability of the drivers to quickly pick up pointers and follow instructions. I was also super impressed with those non-off-road vehicles that successfully negotiated the steps. In the end, nothing was broken, everyone was able to safely climb to the top, and I'm sure each of the drivers completed that task with a sense of accomplishment and pride.
I participated in the Ed4 Safety Clinic a couple of years ago, and I've spent time at Hollister SVRA on my own and with others. Nevertheless, I learned some things I will be able to use when negotiating obstacles like the stair step. Dick's mantra, "It's about momentum", will stick with me forever.
Saturday evening was the dinner for the participants. I sat with three guys I've never met before and we talked about the day. Both the food and the conversation were good. It seemed to me that everyone enjoyed themselves. Once it got dark, I dropped back to my camp site and turned in early.
Sunday morning I broke camp, loaded my car, checked out, and headed for home at about 8:30 AM. I was impressed with the respect everyone has for the sport, and the genuine effort being made to share it with newbies'. I found the Ed4 Safety Clinic very organized as a participant a couple of years ago, and I found it just as organized while working the event this year.
I appreciated the opportunity to be a part of the event this year, and I am looking forward to future trips and events.
Neale Wade
Prospective member