Watersplash

A watersplash is a section of a motorsport course where drivers must navigate through a shallow body of water, such as a stream, ford, or purpose-built water feature crossing the track.

Water splashes are most commonly found in rally racing and off-road motorsport events, where they serve as natural or artificial obstacles that test both the vehicle's capabilities and the driver's skill. Unlike circuit racing on paved tracks, these events often incorporate natural terrain features, and water crossings add an extra layer of challenge and spectacle to the competition.

The depth of a watersplash can vary significantly, from just a few inches to several feet deep. Shallow crossings might seem simple, but even a small amount of water can affect a vehicle's handling and create unpredictable conditions. Deeper water splashes require careful technique to avoid flooding the engine or losing momentum completely.

When approaching a watersplash, experienced drivers typically maintain a steady, moderate speed rather than slowing down or speeding up dramatically. This technique helps create a bow wave—a surge of water that pushes forward and away from the vehicle. The bow wave is crucial because it helps keep water from entering the engine bay through the air intake, which could cause the engine to stall or suffer serious damage.

One of the main risks of driving through water is hydroplaning, where the tires lose contact with the road surface and ride on top of the water instead. This loss of traction makes steering and braking much more difficult. Additionally, water can affect visibility when it splashes onto the windscreen, and it can make the track surface slippery both within the watersplash and immediately after exiting it.

For spectators, water splashes are often among the most exciting parts of a rally stage. The dramatic spray of water as cars power through creates impressive photo opportunities and adds visual drama to the event. Many famous rally stages are known specifically for their challenging water crossings.

Vehicle preparation is important for stages with water splashes. Rally cars competing in events with known water crossings often have their air intakes positioned higher up to reduce the risk of water ingestion. Some vehicles also have additional waterproofing for electrical components that could be damaged by water exposure.

Successfully navigating a watersplash without losing time is a mark of driver skill and experience. A smooth crossing maintains momentum and keeps the overall stage time competitive. However, mistakes such as entering too fast, too slow, or at the wrong angle can result in getting stuck, stalling the engine, or even causing mechanical damage that forces retirement from the event.