Historic rallying has always been about more than the cars. It's about sharing experiences, learning new skills and passing a passion for motoring from one generation to the next.
At HERO-ERA, we're committed to ensuring that tradition continues. That's why we've launched our new Young Rallyist Programme, designed to encourage more young people to experience historic rallying alongside family and friends.
At a recent HERO-ERA event, we were delighted to present our first Young Rallyist Packs to two young navigators, George and Beatrix, before they headed out onto the route.
A Great Way to Start a Rally
Before the start, we caught up with George as he received his Young Rallyist Pack from the HERO-ERA Store.
The pack includes a selection of practical items to help young competitors enjoy the event, including a HERO-ERA polo shirt, cap, navigator's bag and other rally essentials.
George immediately began looking through everything he'd received, proudly showing off the contents, while his dad joked that the new navigator's bag would finally help tidy up everything that normally ends up scattered around the car.
Moments like these perfectly capture what historic rallying is all about: enjoying the experience together.
Discovering Historic Rallying as a Family
George's dad explained that they had entered the event because they wanted to try something different together.
"We wanted to have a go at historic rallying because we have an old car. We normally use it for hill climbs and sprints, but we fancied doing something we could do together."
When asked whether encouraging younger people into the sport was important, the answer came without hesitation.
"Absolutely. Someone's got to carry on when we've finished and can't drive anymore."
With a smile, he added:
"I'm going to need someone to drive me around and show me how it's done when I'm too slow to do it myself."
It's exactly the kind of humour and family spirit that makes HERO-ERA events so special.
Returning for Another Adventure
We also met Beatrix and her dad, Nick, before they set off.
Having competed previously, they were keen to return.
"We had a go at it last year and we did quite well. We had such a good day out we thought we'd try it again."
Their goal for the day was refreshingly simple.
"Big smiles. It's going to be very warm today, so just get to the end and have some fun."
As it turned out, they achieved rather more than that.
By the end of the rally, Nick and Beatrix had claimed overall victory, proving that young competitors can play a major role at the very highest level of historic rallying.
Looking Ahead
The Young Rallyist Programme is about much more than giving away rally equipment.
It's about introducing young people to navigation, encouraging families to compete together and ensuring the future of historic rallying remains bright.
Whether someone is taking part in their very first event, like George, or building on previous experience, like Beatrix, every young competitor helps strengthen the future of the sport.
We're looking forward to following their journeys and welcoming many more Young Rallyists to future HERO-ERA events.
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Introducing the HERO-ERA Young Rallyist Kit