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What’s the difference between Course, GTA, and Trek events?

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What’s the difference between Course, GTA, and Trek events?

Time-Speed-Distance, or TSD, events — focus purely on hitting average speeds and checkpoint times. Course, or Trap rallies add rules about how you’re allowed to follow the route, layering a navigation puzzle on top of the timing challenge. GTA rallies (“Game, Tour, Adventure”) drop the timing element entirely and score you on questions about what you see along the way. Treks are non-competitive, convoy-style drives meant purely for social fun and are a great first event for someone unsure about competition.

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RoadRally
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Can I switch between driving and navigating?

It depends on the event! Some events yes, others, the roles are set at the start. But nothing stops you from swapping seats between events, and plenty of regular teams alternate to keep both people sharp on both jobs.

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Are we breaking traffic laws?

No. Every route is designed to be run entirely within posted speed limits and traffic laws. Organizers plan routes months in advance specifically, so teams never need to break a law to be competitive. AND, SCCA Road Rallies require organizers to alert local law enforcement, just to ensure they know to expect us.

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I’m bad at mental math — can I still do this?

Yes. Some navigators use rally-specific calculators or apps built for TSD math, and route instructions are written to be followed methodically rather than solved on the fly. And most new teams follow “seat of the pants” rules, which simplify the experience and keeps the focus on fun.

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How much does it cost to enter?

Most RoadRally entries run under $40, making it one of the most affordable ways to compete with SCCA. Many events also offer a novice class so first-timers aren’t scored against seasoned rally veterans.

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What should I bring?

A clipboard, calculator, pen or pencil, and paper cover most events. For a night rally, add a small flashlight or map light so your navigator can read instructions without pulling over.

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How does scoring work?

Checkpoints are hidden along the route at positions where your exact arrival time can be calculated from the route’s average speeds. You’re scored on how close you arrive to that calculated time — arrive early or late and you collect penalty points. Lowest score at the end wins.

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Will I have to speed?

No — and that’s the point. Organizers set average speeds below the posted limit for every stretch of road, so meeting your time never requires exceeding the speed limit. Precision, not risk, is what wins.

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What’s a team, and do I need a partner?

A team is two people: a driver, who keeps their eyes on the road, and a navigator, who reads route instructions and calls out timing. If you don’t have a regular co-driver, most regions can help pair you with one at check-in.

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Do I need a special car?

No. Any road-legal vehicle with working lights, wipers, mirrors, brakes, a horn, and seat belts for both occupants will pass tech. Some classes reward RoadRally-specific timing equipment, but plenty of teams compete with nothing more than a phone app, pen, and paper.

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What is RoadRally?

RoadRally is precision driving on public roads — all within posted speed limits, no modifications required, just a driver and navigator working together to hit a series of checkpoints at an exact, pre-calculated time. It’s often the least expensive way into SCCA competition, and one of the most mentally demanding.

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