Rally racing uses high powered all-wheel drive cars that are souped-up versions of actual production models (the most recognizable in the US is the Subaru WRX STi). The cars compete on various road courses that are either gravel, tarmac, or snow. The competition is timed, and split into stages that can take drivers around 20 to 45 minutes to complete. The rallies are multiple day events and usually have around 15 timed stages.

The stages are amazingly challenging and the only thing between the drivers and serious injury or even death is their skill and the co-drivers who guide them through the course using their pace notes. Spectacular crashes and near misses are a common site on a rally - which does add some extra excitement - but I find the most amazing thing about rally racing is the fact that most drivers manage to stay on the road at all. I usually find myself sitting slack jawed in front of my TV watching the rally drivers navigate some of the most treacherous roads I have ever seen at top speed.

Each rally is wrapped up into a very slick hour and a half television summary that is shown on the Speed Channel on the Sunday night after the race. The production values of the WRC shows are top notch and there are many impressive camera view from inside the rally cars so you can really appreciate the skill of the drivers.

The rally season will be coming to an end at the Telstra Australia Rally on November 11th through the 13th. If you have any interest in automotive racing, make it a point to catch the recap on Speed in the 13th.