Class 2B Provisional Driving Licence, Here We Come!

Monday, 4th September 2006 to Wednesday, 4th October 2006 // 31 days

This was the official beginning of our Class 2B Riding Course, or Bike Course, as we called it. We actually went down to the SAF Driving Circuit (SDC) the Friday before for a selection test, which was conducted with a bicycle. Most of us passed with relative ease, except maybe him.

Irregardless, this course was fun and challenging for most if not all of us. What we really appreciated was the fact that it was a stay-out course. However, as the location of the SDC was rather ulu, transportation to and from training was troublesome, not to mention costly.

We started the course by learning the basics of balancing. This is not an easy feat for anyone unskilled, but some of us picked it up quickly. Chee Soon was a natural pro, and it was not surprising when he soon began showing off his skidding skills. Unfortunately, Weiyu injured himself in an accidental collision with another trainee, which saw the end of his role as a Scout Commander since. Upon clearing the balancing and circuit course, we moved on to riding on public roads, which was of course, by a mile, is far more exciting and dangerous than inside the circuit.

Clearing of the Public Road Test would take one to the final part of the course, which was riding off-road on unpaved tracks and jungle terrain. This last week of outfield training was mainly conducted at a common SAF training area, which I nevertheless am afraid to mention for fear of violating some Secrets Act. Off-road riding was challenging, as it really tested one's mettle in the face of camouflaged potholes and uneven ground.

But every obstacle that stood in our way was eventually overcomed. And in a flash, this month flew by. Sadly, it was back to camp.

next