Overland Expo Trainer Interview: Sarah Batten

Photo By: John Allen

It’s another Trainer Tuesday here at Overland Expo, and this week, we’re catching up with Sarah Batten, another familiar face from the training course. Sarah brings 16 years of experience as a Land Rover Experience Instructor, plus time on the G4 Challenge and experience working with the Ineos Grenadier on the Hard Way Home project. Needless to say, Sarah has countless hours behind the wheel and instructing drivers across a wide array of conditions. 

Trainer Sarah Batten walks attendees at Overland Expo.
Photo by John Allen

This summer, you can find Sarah at the Overland Expo Training Course at Overland Expo PNW. We chatted with Sarah about her overlanding experience, her passion for training, and what attendees can expect from the Overland Expo Training program.

Overland Expo: Why do you think it’s important for people to receive proper training before heading out on overland adventures?

Sarah Batten: Fail to prepare, prepare to fail! Training is vital for successful adventures; you don’t know what you don’t know, and getting training from people who have a wealth of experience is key. It helps you prepare to succeed and come back.

Overland Expo: From your perspective, what is the value of the Overland Expo Training? 

Sarah Batten: You can’t put a value on training from experts. People who can share and inform in a safe environment where everyone is valued, and there are no stupid questions.

Sarah Batten on the Land Rover G4 Challenge.
Photo courtesy of Sarah Batten

Overland Expo: What do you think attendees need to do in order to prepare for Overland Expo Training?

Sarah Batten: Come with all your questions! Be open-minded and leave your ego at the door.

Overland Expo: What can Overland Expo Training attendees expect to learn on the driving course?

Sarah Batten: Each course is tailored to the attendees. Do you want to learn the basics? We’ve got you. Do you want to know more about your rig and its gizmos? We’ve got you. Let us know what you want to focus on, and we’ll do our best to help you.

Sarah Batten spotting a driver on an off-road trail.
Photo Courtesy of Sarah Batten

Overland Expo: Speaking of the attendees, why do you think it’s important for them to use their personal vehicle during Overland Expo Training?

Sarah Batten: So it becomes like a comfy pair of slippers. You’ll have a greater understanding of how your vehicle handles obstacles and be prepared to adjust settings and lines that help your vehicle get through

READ MORE: New Training Opportunities at Overland Expo

Overland Expo: What is your favorite component of Overland Expo Training? 

Sarah Batten: I love the eureka moment! When you see in the attendee’s faces that they’ve got it, they understand. I also love the team; we’re all different and bring different skills, but at our core, we all love to share knowledge and skills with anyone who’ll listen!

Sarah Batten training attendees at Overland Expo.
Photo by John Allen

Overland Expo: Thanks so much for taking the time to chat with us, Sarah. We can’t wait to see you and the rest of the Overland Expo Training Team at Overland Expo PNW this summer. 

You can learn more about the event and get your tickets for Overland Expo PNW below. 

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