AH, your second post confirmed it: THere are a couple switches on your radio for channel reversing. Flip the reversing switch for Ch.2 (throttle). Then, re-calibrate the ESC. The reverse function SHOULD be a "double-pump", that way you get braking action first, then on the second "pump" you get reverse. This is so you don't go from forward to reverse immediately, stressing the drivetrain.

Don't feel bad, mate, we ALL started out as newbies too. RC has a fairly steep learning curve. Have you read the "sticky" at the top of this forum? Lots of good info there for noobs. And always feel free to ask questions, no such thing as a "stupid question". We've all been there.

When you do get around to upgrading the motor system and you go LIPO, just be sure to CUT OFF those crappy Molex battery connectors Tamiya continues to use, and REPLACE them with something more appropriate, like Traxxas, or Castle's new power connectors. Those Molex connectors cannot handle the AMPS Lipo and brushless motor systems use.