What is a Targa Rally?

A popular spin-off of a Road Rally, time plays a greater part in a Targa Rally. A cross between a Rally and an Autotest, a Targa consists of a course marked out by cones, with a set route and a navigator to direct. The aim is to follow the correct route, in the quickest time possible.

Targa Rallies are most commonly held during the daytime, on private land, with twists and turns keeping speeds low. Some events may use multiple venues, navigating on public roads between locations.

At single venue Targa Rallies, you may share your car, taking it in turns to act as driver or navigator. Teamwork is key.

How to take part in a Targa Rally

There are a number of clubs across the UK organising regular Targa Rallies that are open to newcomers. Events are run by local volunteers, with rules and regulations determined by Motorsport UK, the governing body, to provide safe, fair and fun competition.

To find a club or an event near you, or to volunteer to support your local Rallying events, register here and a member of our team will be in touch to match you with a StreetCar-accredited club.

Checklists

For a Navigational Rally, no special equipment or training is needed, though there are some regulations for the car that is entered.

The car must have:

A valid MOT, and be taxed and insured for road use
Paintwork all one colour, with no primer visible
Standard wheel arch extensions and all major internal trim (headlining, inside door panels, carpets, and rear seats)
An engine with a maximum of four cylinders
A maximum of four forward facing beams as well as side indicator lights

For diesel and petrol engines under 1500cc forced induction is permitted, provided the complete original induction system is unmodified apart from the replacement of the air filter element.

Please note, this is only a summary of key points. Your club will be able to provide further guidance.

You will need:

A Club membership
Your entry fee
An RS Clubman licence from Motorsport UK

Depending on the club, you may also need:

Special motor insurance (see below)
The specified map
A Perspex romer

Insurance

Standard motor insurance does not usually cover “racing, pacemaking, reliability trials, speed testing or rallies”, so additional insurance may be needed from your provider, or a specialist insurance broker.

Alternatively, clubs often arrange specialist policies with Motorsport UK, to cover competitors throughout the duration of the event. This option is third party only, and does not cover damage to your car, but is the most common solution. Your local club can guide you through this process.

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