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Rally Driving
- (Oxfordshire)
In
Brief "An
exciting combination of handbrake and throttle, sideways action!"
Review
Rally
driving is every bit as fun as you'd imagine. We've all seen
the high-speed power-slides and break-neck maneuvers on TV - and
this is where imagination meets throttle pedal.
Upon arrival at Chipping Norton, a narrow winding lane led us to a
well presented rally lodge, where 20 other drivers were
already grouped. Here we received a full debriefing and
training talk from one of the chief rally drivers, while enjoying a
hot cup of tea! The debrief provided tips and instructions for
handling the vehicles and the do's and don'ts
of rallying. The demonstration was clear and interesting, and
heightened the anticipation of what was to come. We then donned our
protective headgear and headed to the vehicles...
Visitors have the option of driving a front-wheel drive Ford Puma or
four-wheel drive Subaru Impreza. These events are usually
operated on separate days and have different costs depending on the
required vehicle and duration. No
time was wasted seating us in the cars; it was a matter of jumping in, adjusting the seat, buckling up,
safety check and
go... The
first stage of the rally circuit comprised a series of chicanes,
designed to introduce the fundamental driving skills. The cars
were surprisingly easy to drive, however rallying them was a whole
different story! Within minutes everyone had mastered the
technique of sliding the cars sideways, although it took slightly
longer to do so in a controlled fashion! During
the experience the instructors provided a running commentary of the
approaching twists and turns and guidance for navigating them. The
dialogue was excellent and enabled each driver to achieve their
personal best. The
second stage of the rally circuit was even more impressive and
required advanced driving techniques. The chicanes were
accompanied by sharp bends, embankments and blind corners. The
track surface was also varied to introduce different vehicle
handling and build a wider set of skills. Among the
terrain encountered included, grass, gravel, concrete and of
course... lot's of mud! The
final part of the day involved swapping the driving seat for the
passenger seat and experiencing how the professionals do
it!... Without a second to contemplate, the instructor tore
away from the start-line in a shower of mud and dust... The speed
was extraordinary as the car slid sideways into the corner...
quick flick of the steering wheel, pull on the handbrake and horizontal
into the next! The car thundered as the suspension tried to contain
the shocks! In
summary, Vision Motorsport put on a top-class rally experience, that
is among the best of its kind. The combination of instruction and participation
is a winning combination. The instructors and pit-crew were enthusiastic
and offered individual advice to suit each person's abilities.
The specially designed facilities are well equipped for participants
and spectators.
Visitors will find the Ford Puma and Subaru Impreza events equally
exciting. However if you're looking for the ultimate speed and
thrill, then the Subaru's 300+ BHP is enough to impress the most
hardened drivers.
Booking
information
Please visit www.visionmotorsport.co.uk
or call 08707504100 for more information, including costs and booking information.
The cost varies depending on the vehicle and duration chosen. |
