Rallyists

Rallyists are participants in a rally, which is a form of motorsport that tests drivers and navigators against the clock on closed roads. Rallying typically involves a series of timed special stages that are run on public or private roads, often closed to the public for the event. These stages can be on various surfaces, including gravel, asphalt, snow, and ice.

The objective of a rally is to complete the special stages in the shortest possible aggregate time. Drivers are assisted by co-drivers or navigators who read pace notes, providing crucial information about the course ahead, such as turns, road conditions, and potential hazards. These pace notes are meticulously prepared during a reconnaissance or shakedown stage, where drivers and navigators familiarize themselves with the route.

Rally cars are specially prepared vehicles, often based on production models but modified for competition. These modifications can include reinforced chassis, suspension upgrades, powerful engines, and safety equipment like roll cages. The diversity of rally events means that cars are adapted to specific terrains and conditions.

The sport has a long history and is organized globally, with various championships like the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) being the premier series. Rallying demands exceptional driving skill, precise navigation, strategic thinking, and reliable machinery to overcome challenging conditions and varying landscapes.