Since our car wasn't quite ready in time to race this one, we volunteered to help crew for a friend of ours, who had just recently completed his first stage rally build.
This was the first event for driver, Todd, but luckily, he had a seasoned veteran in his co-driver, Brian.
I could tell you all about how the race went, that they had a minor off very early in the event, but recovered to place 5th in their class. But that's not why I'm writing this. Not that that isn't a good thing, mind you. We are very proud of them, and pleased with the result, and how the car survived nearly unscathed from its first outing.
But what I really want to write about today is how much I love this sport. I've been home now for two days, and I am still having withdrawals. I miss the sound of the cars, the smell of fuel, and the hustle and bustle of service. I miss all of our rally friends.
You see, rally isn't just about the race. It's about connections. From the moment you step into this world, you become a part of something. A family of sorts. Crazy and dysfunctional though it may be. You see old friends, and make new ones. And there are no awkward initial meetings. It's instant. The passion we all share for this sport creates a bond that is unique and quite strong. Over the weekend, I saw teams helping each other. Drivers and co-drivers offering advice and support to one another. I saw crews jump in to help other competitors, even in the same class. I saw people sharing food, tools, shelter from the elements, and more. And this isn't a rare occurrence, either.
This. Is. Rally.
This is why I love it. This is why I count down from one event to the next. This is why I am so proud to be a part of this world. The friendships, the laughter, the excitement, the disappointments, the struggles, the celebrations... all of it. There is no comparison.
This weekend, like many rally weekends, Mother Nature decided to make things challenging for us. From high winds, to thunderstorms and torrential rain. But we banded together, and we made it through.
Crews pitched in to help each other pack up and take shelter, while we waited on our cars to arrive. But no amount of rain could dampen our spirits. Through it all, there were smiles and laughter. And after the storm had passed....
We had a rally rainbow. And amidst all the chaos of service, you saw everyone stop for a moment and admire the beauty of that wonder of nature.
Nature is a big part of rally. The stages are set in some of the most stunning places you'll ever see. And it rarely goes unnoticed.
These are the paths less traveled. The roads that lead to real happiness. Whether you are a competitor, volunteer, or spectator, you can't help but be in awe of some of these views. Views you might otherwise miss.
But don't let the peaceful, serene sights fool you. This is still a race. The cars are fast and fierce. The competition is tight, and the danger is very real. Not all the cars survive. With challenging terrain and tricky conditions, anything can (and often does) happen. But that's all part of the intrigue.
(Just a few of the vehicles competing at BRS.)
These drivers and co-drivers have to be skilled, and courageous. This isn't a sport for the weak minded or faint of heart. I have the upmost admiration for these folks, and I hope when it comes time for our first race, that I have what it takes. I love rally. I love the highs, and even the lows. For it's during those times that you see what these people are really made of. The spirit, the drive, and the fight to push forward, no matter what stands in your way. They may fall, but they always get back up. That is the heart of rally. That is the blood that pumps through the veins of everyone in this sport. That is the bond that unites us all. That is what keeps us coming back, time and time again.
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