How to Get Into Rally Racing
Photo: Nonaka Oikawa via Flickr
Rally racing is one of the purest and most functional forms of motorsport; driving real cars on real roads as fast as possible. With the world as your racetrack, great care must be taken to properly prepare for rallying to keep everyone safe. Here are a few things you’ll have to do to achieve your dreams of becoming a rally driver:
Volunteer at a Local Rally
Learning how to be a good rally driver is a huge commitment and is exceptionally expensive. In order to be sure that you’re willing to go the extra mile, volunteer at a local rally race. You’ll learn about how the races operate and be able to talk to drivers and officials. If you’re still interested after attending a few rally races, study up on the Rally America rule book.
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Buy or Build your Rally Car
The easiest way to get your rally car is to buy one that’s already been built and approved for competition. Those that have the money to spend, however, may choose to build their very own car to their specifications. If you choose to build your own, make sure you follow the safety specifications in the rule book.
Building a rally car involves installing a roll cage; modifying the engine, brakes, exhaust, and fuel systems; and installing special tires and wheels. If you’re a beginner, a small two-wheel drive car is a great way to get started.
Photo: Jo via Flickr
Learn How to Drive It
Your regular driver’s license isn’t going to get you into a rally race; you’ll have to go to rally school. Rally America requires you to purchase a competitors license to be able to enter its races, and there are many rally driving schools in the United States that will teach you how to handle your car in the dirt, snow, and street at high speed. Some well known schools are Team O’Neil Rally School, Rally Ready Driving School, and Dirtfish Rally School.
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