Aspirations

I'm the kinda person who likes lists and planning ahead. Even if I dont know exactly what I want to do, planning it gives me a better idea of what I actually want and how it might unfold. So here's what I'd like from life... followed by a rant about rallying:

- a healthy, well paid job in Software Engineering,
- a nice little house with 1 house-mate and a big garage,
- a nice girlfriend with similar values who keeps me active,
- a comfortable road car (Golf GTi maybe),
- a good rally car (maybe a quick little FWD hatch),

For a few years now I've wanted to be a rally driver. I love exploring, driving, precision, concentration and measured bravery so it fits. I'd like to be good at it, but I wont be devastated if I'm not. I do have a good knowledge of driving to match my passion and skills. The ability to read the road and know what the car's doing at all times are important skills which I have. My reflexes are not brilliant so I doubt I'll be the best rally driver. It doesn't really matter because it's more about having fun and exploring while testing your ability to drive near the limit of the car/road and your skills.

I love driving and I love driving near the limit so instead of going out and having fun on public roads I've decided to wait until I can do it safely in rallies. That's the purpose of a rally. They close the roads, have safety vehicles and procedures in place to deal with accidents. You always know there will be someone on the scene in 2-5mins if something happens which is better than being out in the forest on your own driving around at night. The idea is to put measures in place so drivers can enjoy their passion in a safer environment with a bit of competition mixed in.

Rallying is a dangerous sport and accidents happen. It's to be respected, but it's also to be enjoyed. It's possible to minimise the risk in the way you drive and prepare the car for an event. The risk is always there, but so is the huge enjoyment factor. I feel at home in a car, especially on gravel. Everything comes to life and it's so satisfying.

I'm trying to find a way into it because I dont personally know anyone in the rally scene. I'm working on it and I'd like to start co-driving next year. I wont be a good co-driver, but you have to start somewhere and co-driving is a bloody good way to do it. I've been spectator marshall, road closure, time control official so I'm getting closer. With some money and motivation, I hope my dream can become a reality.

So that's where I'd like to go.