Tbh that Sinclair dinosaur has always faced left. It's a super common mix-up because our brains just assume it would face the direction of travel.

What gate did you think you were keeping?

Actually, the shovel count matters more than you'd think. Even with sand density changes, keeping the ratio consistent is what gives you the same strength every time. That's why the old guys stick to their numbers, it's not just superstition.