From its origins in Monte Carlo in 1905, Rallying has evolved into one of the most dynamic and exhilarating forms of motorsport, enjoyed by millions of fans all around the world. Whilst there are still many variations, the majority of events these days are what are referred to as "Special Stage Rallies". Navigational and "Trial" Rallies still operate at lower "Clubman" levels, and these events find their origins in the classic rallies where map reading and navigation was critical. These days it's more about total speed!
Special Stage Rallying:
All events in the World Rally Championship, Asia Pacific Championship, and all Australian Rally Championship and State Championship rallies are run as a "Special Stage Rally". Even Cross Country Rallies such as the grueling Paris Dakar Rally run to the same set of regulations. Basically speaking, the Special Stage Rally consists of 2 different elements, the "Special Stage" and the "Liaison". The Special Stage is a closed section of road where drivers are racing the clock, demonstrating all the speed and skill they can muster to be the fastest. These special stages form the basis of how the rally is decided, as the fastest driver over all the special stages in a rally will be declared the winner. The "Liaison" section, as the name suggests, is normal public roads that link the Special stages together. Drivers are expected to fully abide by all regular road and traffic regulations whilst on a Liaison section and penalties are issued to any competitor found to be in breach of those rules.
Rallying In Australia:
While rallying is recognised as a "national sport" in countries such as Finland and Sweden, the profile of the sport in Australia is nowhere near as high. The pinnacle of competition in this country is Rally Australia, which is our round of the World Rally Championship (WRC), followed closely by the Rally of Canberra, which is a round of the FIA Asia Pacific Championship. Domestically, we have 6 rallies which form the Australian Rally Championship (ARC), in Western Australia, Tasmania, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.
The good news for potential rally competitors is that each state also has their own championship, and a clubman series championship as well, and the sport is flourishing at these levels nationally. It's the ideal place to start out your rally career, in a fantastic social environment, surrounded by supportive and enthusiastic people just like you. And we can help to get you going!!
Rallying is not a "cheap" sport at any level; however, you can find a combination of car and events to suit your budget. So even if you don't have $1,600,000 spare to buy a World Rally Car, there will be a rally car available somewhere to get you started. If you'd like to know how to get started; stop reading and pick up the phone and
