Post by Wyldman on Jul 15, 2009 17:02:40 GMT -8
In this section, I would like to address the concept of a "Spotter"
At times, this person and the driver have to act as one unit. Trusting in your spotter can mean the difference between successfully getting through an obstacle or serious injury and damage to your rig. When running more difficult trails a spotter becomes more important.
The roles of each:
Spotter;
A Spotter takes the roles of being the eyes for the Driver. As a Spotter, it is very important to recognize the capabilities of the Driver and the vehicle being driven. The Spotter can see the whole vehicle and needs to determine the BEST/SAFEST path for the vehicle to take. Realize that the ultimate decision is left to the Driver and whether or not Him/Her and the vehicle can make it through the obstacle in the first place. Remember to always error on the side of caution.
Driver;
I can't say this enough!!! A Driver has to TRUST the Spotter. As a Driver you can only see a fraction of your vehicle. You must rely on the Spotter to tell you the best way through an obstacle. Obviously, the more challenging the trail the more important is the relationship between Driver and Spotter. As a Driver, it is very important to know the limits of yourself and your vehicle. When you find yourself in a hairy situation make sure you and your spotter are on the SAME PAGE. If you don't feel comfortable with the person spotting you, due to maybe lack of experience. Politely ask someone else to spot you. As the Spotter, take this time to pay attention to exactly what is going on, so in the future the Driver will be more comfortable in your ability and experience. Don't be offended, it's the Drivers butt in that chair.
Take a look at this video on YouTube. This will give you a Great picture of how paying attention can make all the difference in the world. You may need to watch it twice.
If after that, it is clear how important the relationship between a Driver and Spotter is.
Call me before your next trip.
I'm sure I probably missed something. Feel free to add your suggestions/comments to this.
Until Next Time.... Enjoy!
Wyldman
At times, this person and the driver have to act as one unit. Trusting in your spotter can mean the difference between successfully getting through an obstacle or serious injury and damage to your rig. When running more difficult trails a spotter becomes more important.
The roles of each:
Spotter;
A Spotter takes the roles of being the eyes for the Driver. As a Spotter, it is very important to recognize the capabilities of the Driver and the vehicle being driven. The Spotter can see the whole vehicle and needs to determine the BEST/SAFEST path for the vehicle to take. Realize that the ultimate decision is left to the Driver and whether or not Him/Her and the vehicle can make it through the obstacle in the first place. Remember to always error on the side of caution.
Driver;
I can't say this enough!!! A Driver has to TRUST the Spotter. As a Driver you can only see a fraction of your vehicle. You must rely on the Spotter to tell you the best way through an obstacle. Obviously, the more challenging the trail the more important is the relationship between Driver and Spotter. As a Driver, it is very important to know the limits of yourself and your vehicle. When you find yourself in a hairy situation make sure you and your spotter are on the SAME PAGE. If you don't feel comfortable with the person spotting you, due to maybe lack of experience. Politely ask someone else to spot you. As the Spotter, take this time to pay attention to exactly what is going on, so in the future the Driver will be more comfortable in your ability and experience. Don't be offended, it's the Drivers butt in that chair.
Take a look at this video on YouTube. This will give you a Great picture of how paying attention can make all the difference in the world. You may need to watch it twice.
If after that, it is clear how important the relationship between a Driver and Spotter is.
Call me before your next trip.
I'm sure I probably missed something. Feel free to add your suggestions/comments to this.
Until Next Time.... Enjoy!
Wyldman