Rally Driving
Rally driving is a type of racing competition which takes place on either roads that are public or private. The cars used for these competitions will often be heavily modified, or specially built for this purpose. Rally driving is different from other types of racing because it is not conducted on circuit, but it uses a point-by-point structure where competitors will drive in between specific control points, which may also be known as stages. At different intervals, the drive will go from one start point to another. Rally drivers can win by simply employing speed inside these stages, or they can win by driving through a certain number of stages within a set period of time.
During the 1950s, rally driving became quite popular in European countries such as Finland and Sweden. One reason for this was due to the creation of a special type of stage which was called the "specialstracka." These competitions would often be held on private roads that were not full of traffic. During the 1950s, when rally competitions were just starting out, drivers were not paid a great deal, and some were paid nothing at all. However, they would be given bonuses for winning the competition. By the 1960s, rally driving had begin to grow in popularity around the world, and it was during this time that Volvo became interested in designing cars for these competitions.
Rally driving can be broken down into two categories, and this is road rallies or stage rallies. Starting in the 1960s, the stage rallies were the professional aspect of the competition. This type of rally is based on forward speed through roads which are closed to non-competition traffic. Such roads can range from mountain passes to tough forest roads. Some competitions are even held on icy roads. The goal is to find a road that is challenging to the drivers, and which will test to quality and performance of the car. Another reason for choosing these roads is because they are unpredictable.
Today, rally driving has become popular around the globe. Large events will bring in a large number of spectators, and this is especially true in Europe and Asia. In contrast, road rallies will be held on highways and roads which are normally given to standard traffic. The goal with this type of competition is not speed, but on proper navigation and time management. These competitions will be held on tough roads with long distances.
Related articles
Learn more about and experience » Motocross
Learn more about and experience » Off-road Go Karts