Qualifying Stage to set starting numbers again

Articles

2. 7. 2016 - Roman Ordelt

For the third time, the Qualifying Stage will set the tone of Barum Czech Rally Zlín. Three years ago, the qualifying stage was a part of gravel-rich rallies in FIA ERC and since 2014 it is a part of all ERC events. Qualification is for drivers with FIA or ERC priority and based on the results, they will pick their starting number for Saturday's Leg 1. The Qualifying Stage of the 46th Barum Rally will take place on Friday 26th August on tarmac road from Komárov to Pohořelice of total length 4.71 km.

How is it done? From 7:30 to 9:10 a.m. the crews can twice test the section between Komárov and Pohořelice and those times will not be counted. The deciding third time counts and the runs start at 9:15, finishing at 10:10 a.m. The starting order to the Qualifying Stage will be announced in advance. Unlike other qualifications, which are measured to tenths of a second, this one is measured to thousands of a second, making it even more interesting. The results of the third run are crucial for the selection of the starting order. The selection, based on the results from the qualification, will take place at 3:30 a.m. on a starting ramp in front of the Town Hall. The winner of the Qualifying Stage is the first one to pick his number. Only the fastest fifteen have the right to choose their starting number.

After the qualification, the same section will be available for non-priority drivers, testing their cars within the traditional Shakedown. Its character is very well-known to the fans. Shakedown will take place from 10:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Qualifying Stage and Shakedown will be held on the classic section of the SS Komárov, which is in the itinerary since the birth of Barum Rally. One of the interesting parts for spectators is in a village square in Pohořelice, where there are many sharp turns and a U-turn followed by a narrow local road. The track is 4.71 km long and is mostly situated on B roads with a lot of turns of various difficulty. Fans will witness wonderful runs of the competing cars through out Friday afternoon.

Qualifying Stage (Komárov–Pohořelice, length 4.71 km)
7:30–9:10 a.m.: free runs (drivers with FIA and ERC priority)
9:15–10:10 a.m.: qualification (drivers with FIA and ERC priority)
10:15–13:00 a.m.: Shakedown (non-priority drives)