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Understanding the obstacle before we attempt to tackle it
We moved on to lunch which was served at the bunker located next to the balancing bridge. While lunch was served, we were taught how to tow a vehicle and the requirements from a tow and types of tows along with their advantages and disadvantages. Towing seemed very easy but as we learned, it was one of the most dangerous ways to recover momentum and we were warned about the kind of accidents they’ve caused when not in the hands of a professional. With each passing task, it changed our perspective towards how we saw off-roading. To a lay man, all it takes is a vehicle with high ground clearance and good tyres but rest assured there was a lot more to it and with each passing second, the excitement didn’t seem to cease and only grow.
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Throttle control is key in this fun but difficult obstacle
The only mode we used throughout was the low range four-wheel drive
Finally moving on to our final obstacle called ‘Rock Crawl’. Even though this sounds pretty easy but ended up being one of the trickiest obstacle that requires the driver to focus on throttle input and steering. You may think how hard could crawling over a few shallow ditches and rocks could be but mind you, one mistake could lead to you getting the car stuck like a seesaw or rocking chair just struggling for traction as you’ll just go from side to side trying to find traction with one side of your vehicle floating, simulating a seesaw.
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There is nothing more fun than to splash a puddle of muck and not have to worry about pedestrians
Anyway as this obstacle progressed and you get the hang of it, it ends up being pretty fun and it will make you want to clear it all over again. I’d like to mention that all of these obstacles were conducted with professionals present around the course, always guiding you and granting you a helping hand whenever you managed to find yourself in a tricky situation and serving as a safety net of experience and understanding of the course. There was not a second that any of the activities felt a tad too far or unsafe in any way with a medical team and car always being present at each obstacle along with a car for snacks and refreshments.
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As you can see, patience and angle is key
Our batch consisted of all sorts of age groups and even female off-roaders, some of whom were quite experienced and broke every stereotype out there as they cleared each obstacle with ease and technicality. We headed back to the bunker where the certificates were given and pictures were taken. All in all, it’s an opportunity that teaches you a lot and leaves you with a sense of accomplishment as a driver, changes the way you see a dirt track and helps you look at it in a more technical way. If you’re an off-road junkie or wish to get on the off-road bandwagon or you want to experience this and get some real professional guidance under a safe and controlled environment then look no further and get ready to get your hands dirty and skills put to the test.
Further Reading –
Mahindra Himalayan Spiti Escape
Mahindra Royal Escape
