Public Servant Lifestyle

Get to grips with the real deal and try your hand at the ultimate driving experience in rally cars.

Not many people are willing to admit they are bad drivers. In fact, the majority would claim their driving skills far surpass the average road users...and though some may find pleasure turning sleepy side roads into racetracks, that can only have one outcome - disaster.

What better then for the testosterone-fuelled speed junkie to get rid of that aggression in a safe environment: safe for the rest of society, that is.

Activity weekends are a rapidly growing sector of the entertainment market. And one of the most exhilarating ways to spend a weekend is sitting behind a super powered engine ready to hurl round a racetrack or off-road course.

Preparation

Before squeezing into the bucket seats of your chosen supercharged chariot the organisers will generally provide a briefing followed by a video. This is to alert any budding Schumachers of the risks and spills that await if certain ground rules are not closely adhered to.

Providers of these types of activity weekends need to cover themselves through insurance. Pay attention and don't fool around - driving these vehicles can get the adrenaline pumping in your body, but being stupid could get the blood pumping out your body.

Driving the Courses

With most such courses there is a standard introduction procedure involving a first circuit of a track with an instructor. Generally you will be shown how to power slide - controlled skidding round corners. This co-ordinates the power of the vehicle and the steering balance.

Although sounding easy in theory, in practice it can prove to be tricky. The machines are finely tuned for maximum efficiency and a novice may not be able to control them flat out.

Once you've seen how it's done you will take the wheel with the instructor's guidance, learning such techniques as controlled over steer power slides, braking induced over steer, and optimum power gear changes.

Advanced Driving

But for those not satisfied with the standard package, and who fancy their chances of taking the chequered flag in the flesh, then advanced courses are available: more expensive, but often with some fantastic extra features.

The challenge of advanced driving could involve different racing setups such as rear wheeled driving (RWD) or front wheeled driving (FWD), each will give a separate driving experience and prove completely exhilarating.

RWD is usually used for tracks that have varying terrain and surfaces, as handling capability in turns is greatly enhanced. FWD vehicles involves hazardous conditions such as snow. Often you can try the same courses in a variety of setups.

Alternative Vehicles

Mastering quads and motorbikes can be an enjoyable variation and can bring a whole new range of skills into play.

For those who prefer larger machines, try going off-road with a four-wheeled motor. Off-road tracks are far more challenging and test the whole range of driving skills. But if you want an even bigger challenge, then you could have a go at driving a monster truck.

Benefits

Not only is the rally experience extremely enjoyable, but driving technique can be greatly improved. You will also be able to discuss areas for improvement with the instructor.

Not the cheapest of thrill-a-minute weekends, but for an experience that will keep you dreaming of a Formula One future, worth every penny.

More information available in Motor Sport, Extreme Machines