How to start rallying

Rallying is one of the most enduring forms of motorsport. It is man and machine pitched against the elements and is consistently one of the most spectacular branches of the sport.

For the purpose of this feature, we will focus on special stage rallying as this is clearly the most popular type of rallying, although there are other rallying disciplines available. However, the chance to compete against the clock on forest tracks or on asphalt stages – possibly on closed public roads – ensures that rallying delivers a fantastic buzz for any newcomer inspired by the late Richard Burns and Colin McRae.

Special stage rallying comes in all forms; from entry-level events on disused airfields to rounds of the World Rally Championship like Wales Rally GB. Much of the national rallying in Britain takes place on gravel forest tracks.


Our aim in these articles is to help you through some of the questions you'll need to ask:

. Intro
· How do I get my rally licence?
· What equipment do I need?
· Which championship is right for me?
· What type of rally car?
· Do I rent or buy a rally car?
· Do I run it myself or go to a team?
· How do I improve my skills?
· How do I get sponsorship?
· What about the co-driver/navigator?
· What can I put back into the sport?
· Where can I find out more?