jfengineer Wrote:
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> These "infractions" seem trivial compared with the
> trick driving I've seen while foameers chase
> charters along the narrow gauge. It was enough to
> make me not want to return for another.
Fortunately, the number of situations when the actual patrons of a charter must chase their train is pretty limited. The 4% at Cumbres is one of those situations, simply because it is not practical to stop or back the train up on that hill. In those situations, it has been my observation that the patrons' driving is usually pretty tame when compared with that of non-participants. The patrons have typically been briefed in advance as to what will happen, and most of them have a pretty good idea what is reasonably achievable without taking chances. The majority of them are not "kids" and have a stronger sense of their own mortality than perhaps some of those who drive halfway across the country to chase a trip with which they have no financial interest.
As someone who could be considered a charter regular, I never look forward to situations in which I have to mix with the chase crowd.
/Kevin Madore