aka TSD, Navi Rally

Navigational or Time-Distance-Speed (TSD) rallying takes place on regular roads with licensed vehicles, providing fun challenges in reading instructions and keeping to time controls.

FAQS

What is the Minimum Age to Compete?

The driver must have a current drivers license and insurance and be 18 years of age. There is no age restriction for navigators.

What Kind of Cars are Acceptable?

Any road-legal vehicle with current insurance is acceptable.

What Equipment Do I Need In the Car?

It is suggested that the following be part of every navigator’s kit:
1. GPS or Map
2. Pencils or Pens
3. Hi-lighter
4. Calculator
5. Drinks and Snacks

How Can I Prepare for My First Navigational Rally?

It is suggested that you read through sample instructions from prior events which can be requested from the organizers.

How Important are Tires for Navigational Rally?

Rallies are held on public roads, but the roads chosen for the route can be challenging as potentially having a mixed surface of mud, snow, ice or gravel. Good tires are therefore important, especially for winter events.


Overview

Navigational rally also known as Time Speed Distance (TSD) rallying, involve a driver and navigator that work together to cover a specific distance over a specific time at a variety of different speeds. Routes are designated by a set of instructions that are provided usually five minutes from your start time and can involve puzzle solving, math equations, diagrams or written instructions that will guide participants through a designated route. Notably, navigational rallies are not a race and success depends upon keeping accurate speeds to cover specific distances. Teams will check in with marshalls along the way to confirm their elapsed time and that they care on the correct route. The goal is to arrive at a checkpoint at the designated time for your car without being too early or too late, which could otherwise result in time penalties. The team with the overall best time will be designated the winners. In most navigational rallies there are several levels of difficulty available so everyone can participate. These levels are usually designated as Beginner, Novice and Expert. 

Navigational rally is a great way to see some of Ontario’s landscape with organizers selecting driving routes that can take you through the Niagara Escarpment, Caledon, Port Perry and other picturesque parts of Ontario. Roads can be paved, gravel or no winter maintenance (winter) that can be challenging and fun. In navigational rallies, the laws of the road will apply. Competitors will share the road with non-rally traffic. 

Navigational rallies are run by individual clubs and some are designated as Ontario Road Rally Championship (“ORRC”) events, enabling teams to accumulate points that will determine series standings.

Navigational rally is considered a great way to become involved in a form of car rallying without spending a lot of money. Entry fees vary from $20 to $50 dollars and you just need your licensed car and a navigator for a day of fun. Navi Rally is often a stepping stone to other forms of rally as participants become familiar with instructions and timing. 


Next Steps

  • Contact a rally organizer to answer any questions that you may have. Organizers can be found in the event sections of the site.
  • Signup for an event, also in the event sections of the site
  • Come early at least an hour before the first car is to leave as there is often a briefing for new competitors and then immediately before the start there is a drivers meeting for last minute route and event information
  • Get your instructions and review all pages
  • Make it to the start point at least a minute before your designated departure time
  • Start the event and have fun!