Think TSD (Time, Speed, Distance) rallies are not fun? Think again. TSD, also called Road Rallies are unlike races in that they are not tests of speed. Road Rallies are a test of skill and precision. Teams consisting of a driver and a navigator are given a set of Route Instructions that define which roads to drive and the speeds to maintain. Rally teams are scored on how closely to their ideal time they arrive at each checkpoint along the route. This may not seem all that exciting – but there are many challenges to the team members that keep things fun and interesting. Following the proper course can be a subject of satisfaction (and sometimes frustration) as can the math calculations the navigator must perform to keep his/her team “on time”.

The driver will often be challenged by the road conditions, the weather and the speeds. Regardless, teamwork is essential to being competitive against the other teams running in the class. There are classes for Novices who are just getting started in rallying (using the stock odometer and a handheld calculator). From there, classes are defined by the level of navigational equipment used. No matter which class a team chooses to run in, there is still the option to just enjoy the drive or to actually work hard at getting good scores. Alternatively, you may want to start off by working a rally. All rallies need control (checkpoint) crews. This is a great way to get an introduction to the sport.

While Road Rallies are run on open, public roads and at speeds no greater than the posted limits – road selection is important to keeping it interesting. Most of the better roads used on Detroit Region Road Rallies are unpaved. These roads may be sandy, muddy, snow covered or icy. Road Rallies can run under all types of conditions – rain, snow, hot, cold and also well after dark.

For more information contact:
Rally Director
John Fishbeck
fishbeck@msu.edu

2017 Road Rally Calendar