Time Card
A Time Card is an official document used in motorsport events like rallies to record when competitors arrive at different checkpoints and control points throughout the race.
Think of a time card like a punch card at work, but for racing. Competitors must present their time card at various stops along the race route, where officials stamp it and write down the exact time they arrived. This creates an official record of the competitor's progress through the event.
The time card contains a detailed schedule showing exactly when competitors should arrive at each checkpoint. These checkpoints include the start and finish of racing stages, service areas where cars can be repaired, and control points along connecting road sections between stages.
Timing is critical because arriving too early or too late at these checkpoints results in time penalties. For example, if a competitor should arrive at a checkpoint at 2:00 PM but shows up at 2:03 PM, they might receive a penalty that gets added to their total race time.
The card typically includes the competitor's car number, driver names, event details, and spaces for officials to record times and add their stamps or signatures. Everything is recorded to the minute, making precision essential for competitive success.
Both competitors and officials have important responsibilities with time cards. Competitors must keep their card safe, present it at every checkpoint, and follow the schedule to avoid penalties. Officials must accurately record arrival times, calculate any penalties, and provide competitors with their next target times.
While traditional paper time cards are still common, many modern events use electronic timing systems with transponders or GPS tracking. However, physical time cards often remain as backup systems to ensure accurate record-keeping.
The time card system ensures fair competition by holding all participants to the same schedule and route requirements, making it an essential tool for maintaining order and accuracy in complex motorsport events.