[Si Coe]

You might want more than 1 NiMH pack as unlike lipos they don't really like being topped up but 4200 should give you a couple of races without even needing to recharge. Your setup will be faster with Lipos, but then again perhaps its a good thing that you are starting with NiMH's then, there is such a thing as too fast (See Johnny for details.....) especially when learning. And it will give you something to upgrade to later.

For now, if you can't make our indoor series and are stuck in Bury so can't do Roundabout in Denton, then as Rob suggested your best bet is get practising. The track at Goshen is there all year round, and the fence is quite low so go and have a go. The track markers won't be out, but you'll get the rough idea. Practise the jumps, the hairpin at the end of the straight and get a feel for your car on the surface.
Keep an eye on here because we often have practise sessions with a bunch of us (like last Saturday) so people will be around to lend a hand. Bear in mind on an unofficial practise day we won't have electricity so mains chargers won't work. Charge up before hand and run till you go flat!