How do I start learning rally racing as a teen?

Understanding Your Rally Racing Passion

If you're reading this, I'm guessing you've caught the speed bug, just like my own son Cedric has. He always had a thing for fast cars and sharp turns. Your exhilaration probably starts with the sound of an engine revving or maybe the sensation of speed whisking by your ears as you weave through challenging terrains.

Rally racing, a form of off-road racing that takes place in public or private roads with modified production or specially built road-legal cars, offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement and technical prowess. It's not just about being the fastest; there's a very specific skill set needed to navigate twisty roads and challenging landscapes while keeping control of your car. Here's how to begin your journey into this all-consuming passion.

Research and Understand the Sport

You wouldn't jump into a pool without knowing how to swim, and the same goes for rally racing. The first step is to understand the sport, and this includes everything from the basics of how rallies are run and scored, to the type of vehicles used, safety considerations, and the physical and mental conditioning needed to compete effectively.

You'll find that rally racing is a challenging sport that demands not only great driving skills but also an understanding of advanced vehicle dynamics, basic mechanical skills and the ability to manage time and resources effectively. Remember, knowledge is half the battle!

Seek Out Hands-On Experience

You've done your homework, you're pumped full of theoretical knowledge but now what? Before charging headlong into a series of jumps and chicanes, it's wise to get a feel for the car and how it responds.

You can get this experience in many ways - karting, for example, is a great low-cost, low-risk way to develop your car control skills. Another good way, suggested by my wife Claudia, is to find a local track that offers “Track Days”. At these events, anyone with a road-legal car can come along and safely test their capacity. This allows you to experience the thrill and challenges of high-speed driving in a safe and controlled environment.

Acquire the Right Gear

Now you’ve got a taste of driving, it’s time to gear up! Let’s start with safety equipment - helmets, gloves, suits - they're not fashionable options but crucially important. Trust me, I learnt this the hard way when I once accidently nudged my foot on the pedal wearing my thongs (Flip-Flops for my international readers)!.'

Now onto the car, yes, the beautiful beast that is going to make you as swift as the wind. You don’t have to buy a brand new Subaru; you can start with pre-owned rally cars. Just ensure it’s well maintained and safety-checked because nothing ruins your day faster than a mechanical failure in the middle of nowhere."

Learn From The Pros

You've probably watched endless hours of rally racing footage, studying the greats as they navigate hairpin turns and airborne jumps. There's a lot to learn from these drivers, but no amount of Youtube footage will substitute for real-world experience.

A good place to start is with a rally racing school. Here, experienced drivers and coaches guide you with hands-on experience to learn the ropes and hone your skills. They provide a great opportunity to get valuable track time, learn from the best, and develop a community of like-minded enthusiasts that will motivate and inspire you along your journey. Remember what my daughter, Jasmine, always says, "In the face of adversity, community can shoulder a lot of burdens."

Embrace The Grind & Have Fun

Lastly but most importantly, remember to enjoy the journey! Yes, its challenging, frustrating, and at times downright scary but that’s what makes it so exhilarating! Be prepared for the grind, learn from your setbacks, and always remind yourself why you fell in love with the sport in first place.

The journey to becoming an accomplished rally racer is not a short or easy one. It takes time, effort, and an unwavering passion for speed, control, and the open road. But if you go at it with the right mindset, equip yourself with the right knowledge and gear, and surround yourself with the right people, you'll find that journey a thrilling and rewarding one! So strap on your helmet, rev up that engine, and dive into the world of rally racing! It's time for the ride of your life!