Rallying - Getting Started

[Gibson]

Hi guys, I really wanna get started in the amateur rally scene here in Alberta. I'm just wondering some stuff...
-How much am I looking at spending from now until I'm actually on a stage somewhere?
-How often are events of this type run in Alberta? I know of the Cochrane, Kananaskis, and Rocky Mountain rally, but are there any others?
-What requirements do you need to enter an event?
-Does your car have to have insurance on it?
-What kind of car prep are we looking at here?

I'm sure there's more, I'll add them as I remember. I've been looking around the net and I've found some answers to some of these questions but I'm just looking for info from people that actually live here in Alberta so that we're on the same page.

Thanks

[alloroc]

http://forums.beyond.ca/st/192136/how-to-build-an-amature-rally-car/

[Gibson]

Can anyone actually confirm that converting a car to make it even just barely rally worthy is going to cost 9 grand?

[PrezeS_PL]

yes, it will cost this much just to get out there

or buy a built one

http://cscc.speedracer.ca/forums/index.php?topic=7377.msg29757;topicseen#new

http://cscc.speedracer.ca/forums/index.php/topic,4764.0.html

[SilverBoost]

If you're just starting out, buy a car that's already caged and log booked. You'll start off a lot cheaper and with a car already in the game and able to pass tech, you won't have to worry about spending a bunch of cash only to find out you didn't build it correctly.

[alloroc]

As mentioned in the other thread.

If you are just starting out, start with TSD's.

You wont' be able to understand an experienced co-driver if you don't. - and if you have a new co-driver he/she won't know what the hell if going on if they don't.... and you can use any car.

[bituerbo]

Start with TSD's.
I competed in those with a stock car using SNOW tires for a little extra grip on gravel.

Minimal experience, just get a friend who's good at math and logic to be your navigator.

Rally-x gives you good experience being 'quick' without traction. They are soooo much fun, but look to do minor repairs (suspension bushings etc) after a couple of them, as it can be a little aggressive on your car.

A front-drive car is best, as there is less to break, however an AWD car would allow you to compete in the winter events without the worry of getting stuck. I've seen FF cars compete in professional events however.

It's loads and loads of fun, and if I had more time to devote to motorsports I would TOTALLY get back into TSD rallying.