RFC 2011 - the countdown has started.

[XTREME MMM]

PRESS RELEASE.



RFC 2011, “COME RAIN, SHINE OR HIGH WATER…”



A Warm Welcome

The first year of a new decade for the Rainforest Challenge, the start of exciting times to come. A time of expansion of 4x4 activities in the region and beyond. But, first, a warm welcome to all adventurers joining us for this year’ s Rainforest Challenge (RFC). That time of the year at last. After months of behind the scenes activities and planning, the hour of truth has come.



We return to Terengganu again, for another unforgettable adventure. This East Coast state of peninsular Malaysia is right along the direct path of the North East Monsoon, and we have had our fair share of unfinished business here, in 2007 and 2008. How will the rain affect us this year? From weather reports coming here, looks like more than average rainfall will be upon us this time, even the authorities are taking no chances with the anticipated floods. We are also alert of these heavy showers and have taken steps to avoid flood prone areas, with escape routes planned. But, as always, in adventure, nothing is guaranteed yet until the day itself due to the unpredictable weather conditions.



In the Rainforest Challenge, as we know, rain is king. There is no hiding from the rain, when it rains, it pours. Throughout the years of the event, the determining factor is the rain. Less rain means a moderately easy passage through the jungle, more rain means tough conditions ahead and even more rain means expect an extremely tough expedition. However, the ultimate of them all is when the monsoon hits us spot on, like it did in 2007 which resulted in the evacuation of all participants by boat and leaving their vehicles behind in the jungle, just like driftwoods after a deluge. That was one awesome reminder to us mortals, that no matter how high-tech our preparation in our machines can be, it’s Mother Nature, who has the final say of how the event will unfold. But, whatever the conditions, we shall all preserver through the thick and thin in the spirit of RFC.



To all regulars and newcomers, this is the law of the jungle which everyone has to abide to in the next ten days, welcome to adventure! A big part of the RFC is us adjusting everything to the conditions of this law. That’s why, for all of you who are here, congratulations, for facing your fears and living your off-road 4x4 dreams here with us.



In the RFC, when the odds are against us, it’s how we conquer our fears and solve our problems together that counts; and in the process, learn the true meaning of camaraderie that makes us extraordinary men and women. This is one of the essence of the RFC. The event is also different year by year, with different sets of issues and experiences, which makes some to come back year after year, to live out such extraordinary experiences with their peers from around the world.



How Different is this year’s RFC?

The route will pass by and also by-pass the “Land of the Mighty Rivers” of Sg Loh of Hulu Dungun, some sections of the route will also straddle on the highlands of the Main Range of Peninsula Malaysia “The Highlanders Route” and with the coming wind and rain, it’s anything goes in RFC “adventure land.” But, of course, with all the necessary escape strategies in place at the Predator (Hulu Terengganu) and Terminator (Hulu Dungun), we shall endeavour to ride through the “incoming rainstorm.” Last, but not least, we shall face-off at the Twilight Zone at camp 3 (Hulu Kemaman) for the competitor teams to live their 4x4 dreams to the fullest. The media members can join in between.



The RFC is not only adventure, but it’s also an extreme 4x4 sports event. Over the years, we have taken steps to revamp and keep improving the Special Stages (SS) for the enjoyment of the teams and the betterment of this 4x4 sports. This year, we shall incorporate further with a European style Super Stage day with multiple SS for all to experience and to blend in European and Asian styles. This is in line with our expansion in the region and beyond. Yes, this new decade, is also RFC’s time of evolution.



Let the Adventure Begin!

“As D-Day is approaching, I wish to thank everyone either directly involved or indirectly for the steadfast support (now and through the years) in the making of yet another RFC. it’s all systems go this 3-12 Dec, come rain, shine or high water, it’s time for the adventure to begin. Finishing the event as extraordinary off-road 4x4 adventurers is what counts in an extraordinary season, the monsoon,” said Luis J.A.Wee, the founder and creator of RFC.

[BabyGodzillaGTi-R]

Will be participating in this years RFC as a co driver to get some experience.
The driver will be a my friend, a Malaysianised Russian.

Roughly whats our truggy like.
A Suzuki Jimny as the base.
SR20DET
Bundera Gearbox, Transfer Case and axles.
ARB Lockers front and rear.
3 link front suspension
2 link rear with an A Frame like the Range Rover
Profender dampers front
Profender coilovers rear
M8274


Super slow winch just dismantled before installing the plasma rope, albright solenoids and 6hp motor.

Our comp truck with Profender coilovers.



The driver himself....

[XTREME MMM]

[quote="BabyGodzillaGTi-R"]Will be participating in this years RFC as a co driver to get some experience.
The driver will be a my friend, a Malaysianised Russian.

Roughly whats our truggy like.
A Suzuki Jimny as the base.
SR20DET
Bundera Gearbox, Transfer Case and axles.
ARB Lockers front and rear.
3 link front suspension
2 link rear with an A Frame like the Range Rover
Profender dampers front
Profender coilovers rear
M8274


Super slow winch just dismantled before installing the plasma rope, albright solenoids and 6hp motor.



Friday morning 2nd December. First down at breakfast.

Saw this vehicle yesterday, only needs a few minor changes to comply and will be ready to do battle in the 2011 RFC

The Aussies (Peter/Clint, Dave/Daniel arrived yesterday and both vehicles passed, now we have 3 that fully comply on first inspection, the other being Rod Caldwells & Aaron Wards #139 Hilux.

Last night saw a welcome of entrants by Luis JA Wee (founder of RFC) at The Corus, good night was held by all; some more then others.

While this was going on Rod & Aaron were away preparing Rod's support truck, were not to be seen for the night. But all ok Lynda.

Today the group moves north, some on trucks and the rest driving, I will be one of the later

All for now, more later.

Cheers
David "MMM" Metcalfe
RFC Representative Australia

[XTREME MMM]

Good moning from RFC 2011.

Yesterday we arrived at RFC event base after a 7+ hour drive from KL.

Well what more can I say, but Peter/Sharpie & Dave/Daniel were very surprised that there were not more accidents on the road. And after 12 times here it is still an eye opener while driving on these roads.

Dave & Daniel had a minor overheating trouble on the way up, but after a very quick fix to the fuse holder, we were again on our way.

I was not surprised when they also came back to the Hotel with KFC by the bucket load. Why eat the local food when we have this.

Rod & Aaron loaded there truck on to transport for the trip. Rod arrived in his support truck while Aaron travelled up with me. (Lynda he is OK )

12 vehicles still to be checked, starting at 0730 (0930 Aus time). Then its off to the Flag off & around 1300 the start of the Prologue, 6SS.

All for now

Cheers
MMM

[XTREME MMM]

End of Day 1 of 2011 RFC.

This is only early but with agood few DNF's the Aussies and USA/Australia Teams did notget one DNF.

All pulled great times but there are a couple of penalties spread between them.

Another 6SS tomorrow, then to the REAL RFC; Jungle Malaysia.

Today was fine but hot (as usual)

More later

Cheers
MMM

[XTREME MMM]

Aussie and US Teams are sitting it the top 10 (provisional only). It is just after midnight and still working & trying to eat dinner that was brought to me earlier in the evening.
Day 2 has 6SS and then we head off for the jungle.

I will give you more as it comes to hand when there is network coverage.

Cheers
MMM

[Mosko111]

I'm guessing no network coverage? Have ou heard any more recent news Barbie? Would be good if a few Aus teams get up the pointy end! Hopefully they are going well with few breakages and most important of all having an absolutely awesome time!

[moose]

Dave (team Patrolapart) broke a rear axle & dropped out of top ten !
Rod & aaron are in the top 3 still
they have been split into small groups & are tackling the 'twilight zone" 50ks in 3day !!
top group , including Aaron & rod are out leading & clearing !!!!
they started that midday yesterday

[MissGU]

Sorry Mosko, didmt see ya post! i have been updating voa facebook

As of yesterday our time 8pm ....

11 Dec, day 9 of RFC 2011. Yesterday all teams + officials came out of the Twilight Zone (TZ). First group out at 12.20 pm while the last group out was 4.30pm. Heavy showers rained down on campsite 3 (Sg Nipah river) non-stop from midday till dawn, and again from this morning. With the second wave of monsoon rains already battering the area, rivers rising & the campsite muddy, soggy and cramped, the decision to withdraw to safer grounds was taken by Event HQ. All competitor teams, media, support crew, marshalls & officials were out of campsite 3 today and are now at Impiana Resort & Cherating chalet area. On the way out, some sections of the plantation were flooded. From afternoon to evening, heavy downpours in Chukai as everyone checked into the various lodgings, heavy rains & wind continuing. Tomorrow, 12 Dec is the official day for closing ceremony at Impiana Resort, Cherating, Pahang. Report from Chukai town.

[XTREME MMM]

12/12/2011.

As per Lyndas report.

Weather was real good (not) the last day at Camp 3. All Teams & Officials made their way out past a lot of flooded low ground from the night before.

I was able to secure the last 8 rooms from the Official Hotel to cover the Aussies and support, but Peter & Dave ended up at Awana Kijal, north of the Official Hotel ??????

Today will see all Teams assemble at the Hotel for Presentation tonight.

Weather at the moment is overcast & raining yet again.

All the Aussie/USA/Austrain Teams have done very well, but they do not know how well yet. I do:) , having assisted with the scoring. You will find out as soon it has been made Official.

It would have been great to do another 6SS to really sort it out, but with the weather this was not possible.

I think I answer for everyone here, it was great to get a warm dry bed and stay dry for more then 5 minutes.