Little bit Technical VIII
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Daggerfall
- Marshal
- Posts: 358
- Joined: Mon Nov 03, 2014 11:23 am
- Has thanked: 257 times
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The weather is still enjoyable in the desert — if you're willing to wake up at 4:00 AM. 
Due to losing some of our nearby playgrounds to plantations, we chose Sweihan for our “Little Bit Technical” drive.
We had a relatively small convoy, which performed well overall, and we tackled many different types of obstacles. Here are a few points I’d recommend improving for an even smoother experience:
Communication is key — Always report your situation immediately. And when you receive an instruction, please copy or confirm so the lead knows you got the message.
Maintain proper distance — Ideally 3–4 car lengths (adjustable depending on terrain). This gives you enough time to react and observe how the car in front handles an obstacle, helping you keep track and avoid surprises.
Keep moving on descents — A moving car is a safer car. Avoid hard braking or sudden stops while descending dunes, as this can cause the rear to slide due to its lighter weight. If it happens, release the brakes (and give some gas if needed) while straightening the vehicle.
Thanks to everyone who supported and participated!
I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did. See you on the next drive!
Best regards
Due to losing some of our nearby playgrounds to plantations, we chose Sweihan for our “Little Bit Technical” drive.
We had a relatively small convoy, which performed well overall, and we tackled many different types of obstacles. Here are a few points I’d recommend improving for an even smoother experience:
Communication is key — Always report your situation immediately. And when you receive an instruction, please copy or confirm so the lead knows you got the message.
Maintain proper distance — Ideally 3–4 car lengths (adjustable depending on terrain). This gives you enough time to react and observe how the car in front handles an obstacle, helping you keep track and avoid surprises.
Keep moving on descents — A moving car is a safer car. Avoid hard braking or sudden stops while descending dunes, as this can cause the rear to slide due to its lighter weight. If it happens, release the brakes (and give some gas if needed) while straightening the vehicle.
Thanks to everyone who supported and participated!
I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did. See you on the next drive!
Best regards
" I feel the need, the need for Speed " 
Drives Black FJ " VF-1 Valkyrie " , Mob: 050 725 09 31
Drives Black FJ " VF-1 Valkyrie " , Mob: 050 725 09 31
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brett
- Crew
- Posts: 255
- Joined: Fri Jul 26, 2019 10:08 am
- Location: Dubai
- Has thanked: 1744 times
- Been thanked: 1024 times
Dear Almosters
As Mentioned, it was a very early 4am alarm in order to reach the familiar meeting point in Sweihan. Even at 4am the temp was 35C! I arrived around 615am with most drivers already there and ready to go.
The drive was posted by @Daggerfall so a huge thank you to him for scheduling the drive regardless of the early hour. It was a small convoy with only @bobpavan , @galindakis and myself as support – but with only 5 newbies it meant a small manageable convoy of just 9 cars.
@Daggerfall gave a quick briefing reminding the drivers of the correct approach to driving in these conditions, the sand was extremely soft in some parts. The convoy order was set with @bobpavan as 2nd lead, @galindakis mid convoy for recovery assistance and myself sweeping at the back.
Off we went, there were already a number of other convoys enjoying the area and we needed to keep an eye on them to ensure our track was safe. On a couple of occasions @Daggerfall had to adjust our track due to herds of camels lurking in bowls. We had a few situations of refusals on climbs due to the soft sand and lack of momentum, I assisted with one recovery where the driver had crossed the crest and then there was a sharp climb on a soft arch to clear, he managed to become stuck on the wall of the arch at a steep angle and became stuck in the very soft wall. Under the expert guidance of @Daggerfall we managed to extract him without further drama – I am sure the drivers heart rate was on the high side!
The biggest situations we encountered were refusals on climbs due to the soft sand and lack of momentum on the approach. At one climb I think almost every newbie driver required 2 or more attempts to make the climb, meaning by the time I needed to make the same climb and cross the track was completely chewed up and soft. After 3 tries I resorted to 4L in 3rd gear and quickly caught up with the rest of the convoy.
On several straight crests the call came of the radio “No Flying” due to the soft approach and very sharp crest, mostly on these crests the newbies managed to eventually cross, but need to remember the decent is also important, no hard braking and try to keep your car straight. I did see one car get a little airborne on a very sharp crest but fortunately the landing was uneventful!
Take aways from the drive.
- Following distance
- Radio communication
- Momentum – moving car is a safe car!
A Big thanks to everyone who took part in the drive, for the drivers @Ahmedalabassi @Akshaybiju @KingQ @Minhaj @nomi4x4 it surely was a masterclass from @Daggerfall - he was very gentle on you and picked the perfect level to increase your confidence and skills while at the same time ensuring the adrenaline level was just right as you continue your skill development with Almost4x4
By 9:30am the drive was completed 44.5km over 3hrs with moving average of 24km/h and a max speed of 89km/h. Personally I would have been happy to continue for a couple of more hours so until next time
As Mentioned, it was a very early 4am alarm in order to reach the familiar meeting point in Sweihan. Even at 4am the temp was 35C! I arrived around 615am with most drivers already there and ready to go.
The drive was posted by @Daggerfall so a huge thank you to him for scheduling the drive regardless of the early hour. It was a small convoy with only @bobpavan , @galindakis and myself as support – but with only 5 newbies it meant a small manageable convoy of just 9 cars.
@Daggerfall gave a quick briefing reminding the drivers of the correct approach to driving in these conditions, the sand was extremely soft in some parts. The convoy order was set with @bobpavan as 2nd lead, @galindakis mid convoy for recovery assistance and myself sweeping at the back.
Off we went, there were already a number of other convoys enjoying the area and we needed to keep an eye on them to ensure our track was safe. On a couple of occasions @Daggerfall had to adjust our track due to herds of camels lurking in bowls. We had a few situations of refusals on climbs due to the soft sand and lack of momentum, I assisted with one recovery where the driver had crossed the crest and then there was a sharp climb on a soft arch to clear, he managed to become stuck on the wall of the arch at a steep angle and became stuck in the very soft wall. Under the expert guidance of @Daggerfall we managed to extract him without further drama – I am sure the drivers heart rate was on the high side!
The biggest situations we encountered were refusals on climbs due to the soft sand and lack of momentum on the approach. At one climb I think almost every newbie driver required 2 or more attempts to make the climb, meaning by the time I needed to make the same climb and cross the track was completely chewed up and soft. After 3 tries I resorted to 4L in 3rd gear and quickly caught up with the rest of the convoy.
On several straight crests the call came of the radio “No Flying” due to the soft approach and very sharp crest, mostly on these crests the newbies managed to eventually cross, but need to remember the decent is also important, no hard braking and try to keep your car straight. I did see one car get a little airborne on a very sharp crest but fortunately the landing was uneventful!
Take aways from the drive.
- Following distance
- Radio communication
- Momentum – moving car is a safe car!
A Big thanks to everyone who took part in the drive, for the drivers @Ahmedalabassi @Akshaybiju @KingQ @Minhaj @nomi4x4 it surely was a masterclass from @Daggerfall - he was very gentle on you and picked the perfect level to increase your confidence and skills while at the same time ensuring the adrenaline level was just right as you continue your skill development with Almost4x4
By 9:30am the drive was completed 44.5km over 3hrs with moving average of 24km/h and a max speed of 89km/h. Personally I would have been happy to continue for a couple of more hours so until next time
Until the next Adventure
Brett
Red Baron
Brett
Red Baron
Dear All
The drive was amazing with Marshal @Daggerfall @bobpavan as second lead @galindakis as resce and support and @brett my favorite because he rescued me
.
The drive it self was very technical, the adrenaline was at the peak. All the participants performed very well and tried our best to keep the pace.
Thanks to everyone
See you all on the sand next time.
The drive was amazing with Marshal @Daggerfall @bobpavan as second lead @galindakis as resce and support and @brett my favorite because he rescued me
.The drive it self was very technical, the adrenaline was at the peak. All the participants performed very well and tried our best to keep the pace.
Thanks to everyone
See you all on the sand next time.
Amazing Drive scheduled by Daggerfall, Absolutely loved driving on the big dunes with all the big climbs and drops.
Definitely this was the first time since we drove on all multiple bigger dunes in hot and soft sane.
Was for sure little bit technical but we managed to complete the track with couple of 2nd tries (part of the learning process).
No pop outs, 1 recovery only.
Small convoy helped the Marchal and the support crew to concentrate on the track.
Looking forward for the next technical drive.
Special thanks to @Daggerfall for arranging the drive and special thanks to @bobpavan @brett and @galindakis for their support.
Definitely this was the first time since we drove on all multiple bigger dunes in hot and soft sane.
Was for sure little bit technical but we managed to complete the track with couple of 2nd tries (part of the learning process).
No pop outs, 1 recovery only.
Small convoy helped the Marchal and the support crew to concentrate on the track.
Looking forward for the next technical drive.
Special thanks to @Daggerfall for arranging the drive and special thanks to @bobpavan @brett and @galindakis for their support.
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Ahmedalabassi
- Newbie
- Posts: 5
- Joined: Mon Dec 04, 2023 9:07 pm
- Has thanked: 8 times
- Been thanked: 15 times
The weather was perfect in the desert
The drive was amazing with Marshal @Daggerfall , i enjoy a lot , still i am trying to know my car and how to mange it.
there was one area i try many time to pass but car fall me down and i couldn't pass it but @Daggerfall come and lead us to another area.
also i went down for one area and @Daggerfall come and lead me to go up , i enjoy at this moment when i follow him in order to go up and reach area to follow original track
Special thanks to @Daggerfall for arranging the drive and special thanks to @bobpavan @brett and @galindakis for their support.
The drive was amazing with Marshal @Daggerfall , i enjoy a lot , still i am trying to know my car and how to mange it.
there was one area i try many time to pass but car fall me down and i couldn't pass it but @Daggerfall come and lead us to another area.
also i went down for one area and @Daggerfall come and lead me to go up , i enjoy at this moment when i follow him in order to go up and reach area to follow original track
Special thanks to @Daggerfall for arranging the drive and special thanks to @bobpavan @brett and @galindakis for their support.
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galindakis
- Intermediate
- Posts: 52
- Joined: Sun Oct 24, 2021 1:25 pm
- Has thanked: 203 times
- Been thanked: 293 times
We gathered for an early start last Sunday in Sweihan, with a 6:00 AM meeting time that meant alarms were ringing well before sunrise—mine at 4:00 AM sharp. Despite the early hour, everyone showed up with energy and enthusiasm, ready to take on the dunes.
The weather, while hot as expected for this time of year, was surprisingly pleasant with a light breeze that made things more bearable as the morning progressed.
Our convoy was relatively small, which made for a more intimate and manageable drive. We had the pleasure of driving with @Daggerfall leading, supported by @Brett, @Bobpavan, and myself. The compact group allowed for more focus on each driver and created a great opportunity for learning and engagement.
Daggerfall did a fantastic job, pushed drivers to try new lines and handle more complex situations without ever overwhelming them.
Some key takeaways from the day:
- Communication is everything. Whether it was clarifying a tricky climb or giving a heads-up about terrain changes, good radio etiquette made the difference.
- Patience pays off. Everyone progressed steadily, and the drive never felt rushed. It was about skill-building, not just covering ground.
- Maintain distance. With soft sand and frequent direction changes, keeping safe spacing helped avoid potential issues.
Overall, it was a rewarding drive with a solid mix of challenge, learning, and fun. Big thanks to Daggerfal for leading with such finesse and to Brett and Bob for the great support. Looking forward to the next one!
The weather, while hot as expected for this time of year, was surprisingly pleasant with a light breeze that made things more bearable as the morning progressed.
Our convoy was relatively small, which made for a more intimate and manageable drive. We had the pleasure of driving with @Daggerfall leading, supported by @Brett, @Bobpavan, and myself. The compact group allowed for more focus on each driver and created a great opportunity for learning and engagement.
Daggerfall did a fantastic job, pushed drivers to try new lines and handle more complex situations without ever overwhelming them.
Some key takeaways from the day:
- Communication is everything. Whether it was clarifying a tricky climb or giving a heads-up about terrain changes, good radio etiquette made the difference.
- Patience pays off. Everyone progressed steadily, and the drive never felt rushed. It was about skill-building, not just covering ground.
- Maintain distance. With soft sand and frequent direction changes, keeping safe spacing helped avoid potential issues.
Overall, it was a rewarding drive with a solid mix of challenge, learning, and fun. Big thanks to Daggerfal for leading with such finesse and to Brett and Bob for the great support. Looking forward to the next one!
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Minhaj
- Newbie
- Posts: 10
- Joined: Tue Apr 01, 2025 10:56 pm
- Has thanked: 18 times
- Been thanked: 32 times
The drive started at 6:30 AM, and the weather was noticeably better than a typical noon drive—cooler and much more manageable, which made the experience more enjoyable right from the start.
This was one of the most technical drives I’ve done so far, with lots of soft sand, sharp climbs, and constantly shifting terrain. It was a full-on adrenaline rush from beginning to end.
One of the most intense moments happened while climbing a soft sand cliff. I was flooring it, but suddenly noticed the car in front of me was much closer than expected. I had to ease off the throttle, which caused my car to get badly stuck. Honestly, it gave me a mini heart attack Big thanks to Brett and Daggerfall for jumping in and guiding me out of that situation.
The biggest lesson from this drive: always maintain a safe distance and keep communicating.
Overall, it was a super fun and action-packed drive.Huge thanks to Daggerfall for organizing the drive and Brett, bob, and galindakis for the support and guidance throughout. Looking forward to the next one!
This was one of the most technical drives I’ve done so far, with lots of soft sand, sharp climbs, and constantly shifting terrain. It was a full-on adrenaline rush from beginning to end.
One of the most intense moments happened while climbing a soft sand cliff. I was flooring it, but suddenly noticed the car in front of me was much closer than expected. I had to ease off the throttle, which caused my car to get badly stuck. Honestly, it gave me a mini heart attack Big thanks to Brett and Daggerfall for jumping in and guiding me out of that situation.
The biggest lesson from this drive: always maintain a safe distance and keep communicating.
Overall, it was a super fun and action-packed drive.Huge thanks to Daggerfall for organizing the drive and Brett, bob, and galindakis for the support and guidance throughout. Looking forward to the next one!
