There is an old adage. One that says, “There was a time when Motorsports was dangerous and sex when safe.” I feel that this holds a lot of truth to it. Relaxing at home the television is infected with ads by the Ad Council much like the diseases they are trying to protect you against, and Motorsports is plagued by new rules and regulations. Updated fan supervision laws come out on a consistent basis. Which have resulted in less spectator and driver deaths since their implementation. But have caused viewer friendly race series to be brushed under the rug and left there. Although these new guidelines have caused people to stop darting in front of the cars as they flew down the trail, there is still a hard-core group of enthusiasts who keep this balls to the wall style of racing alive. Welcome to the Mt. Hood Rally.This race series has brought a new faith into one writer. As the drive there alone was an adventure. Getting to drive up to the race over the twists and turns of the gravel roads put you into the mindset of the driver. Grip being lost at every bend, and we were only going 25 miles an hour. I could only imagine the thoughts rushing through the minds of the driver as they come careening around a corner going double our speed.
The race was divided into 4 stages, each with a motorcycle and car group. The motorcycle’s went first. And frankly I am glad, because seeing these guys on the gravel was a sight on its own. Not to mention who doesn’t go to a race like this to see spills? Well sure enough there were a few of them. It was a good start. As the car stages were much more exciting. So they became a good pre-amble to the sideways dirt slinging action. Much like the large variety car shows that you all know I am fond of there was a lot here as well. Old Saabs and Alfa Romeos. 80s Audis and CRX’s, even a brand new Subaru STI had come along for the ride.
Although this was a smaller Rally compared to WRC or the Oregon Trail. There was still a good amount of spectator area and competitors, and a day chock full of excitement. If you are interested in the sport and it all sounds good aside from the trees and miles of forest coming at you at freeway speeds. Be sure to look into your local Rallycross hosted by the SCCA or any number of local organizations. And keep both the spectators and drivers out there, keep Motorsports dangerous.
