Rallyes come in a variety of types. 'Gimmick' rallyes are usually of the type
David described, with instructions from point-to-point, and sometimes quite
odd ones; the fun and victory are mostly in the participation. Usually,
gimmick rallyes are not timed ... just make it to the checkpoint and you're a
winner.
Regular point-to-point timed rallyes are a bit more challenging. They
usually involve something like 'flags' which have to be picked up along the
given route. 'Flags' can be anything from a literal flag to some question
asked by the checkpoint which must be answered by something you have observed
along the route. These events usually involve a set route, which is given to
you in pieces at each checkpoint. A navigator is often a required passenger.
These are quite common and the route can be given out either in verbal
direction form or in map segments. Speeds can be quite harrowing, if the
speed is not set by the instructions (seldom is, in this type).
Timed cross-country rallyes are the closest to professional racing. They
work something like the Tour DuPont. The yearly North African rally is a
good example of the auto type; this rally goes from (someone will correct me
if I'm wrong) something like Monte Carlo to Casablanca in several stages.
Car types, weight, passenger, cargo, etc. are usually strictly delineated.
Serious injury or health problems are not out of the question.
Point-to-point rallyes and autocross can be a lot of fun. I enjoy the
rallyes the most, though it's been a few years since I've been in one. (Last
time was in a modified 280-Z I used to own). Your daily driver or all-round
fun car can be good to take in a gimmick rallye; I wouldn't take mine in a
regular timed rallye, though. Too hard on the car. Local events of this type
can usually be found through your local MG club or local gearhead shop.
Highly recommended.
Corey
75 MGB 'Rags'
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