Rally School

[jagat nanjappa]

Originally Posted by PVS

Hi Jagat

Great to see you on the forum and a warm welcome, albeit a bit too late!!

As many others on this forum had already pointed out, both of you (Jagat & Anita Nanjappa) were a source of inspiration for many a biker! It was really exciting watching the both of you zip around on the powerful RD 350 at amazing speeds, in the late 80s and early 90s.

I recollect having read an article about Anita in a magazine -
apparently she's now moved on from the world of rallying and is managing a homestay in the vicinity of Mercara?? Correct me if I am wrong.

Here's wishing the both of you all the very best in your future endeavours!!!

Thank you PVS.
You are right about Anita.

[jagat nanjappa]

Originally Posted by Torqy

Yes, i've seen your Red Tatamobile with the bike tied up at the back.....and i still see you often in Kammanahalli when i come for service.

Thats true. We used to travel to any part of the country to take part in the INRC with that outfit. Great fun.
I live in that area when i am out of coorg.

[jagat nanjappa]

Originally Posted by ajmat

I'm in, although I'm a grumpy old man, I'm willing to learn, again and again and again

any other BHP'ians coming ?

Ajmat, you have to let me know for sure if you want to do this.

You can call me on 9448479703 for further details.

[ajmat]

Originally Posted by jagat nanjappa

Ajmat, you have to let me know for sure if you want to do this.

You can call me on 9448479703 for further details.

I had already registered when I wrote that!

Anyway, lets shoot to the 3rd May. Arrived at FRK's works at the appointed time. Jagat was waiting and ready to go. Very approachable person and I felt at ease with him immediately. He reminded me a lot of our favourite old man though am not sure whether he dissolves in a single malt or screams at a capsicum. I was the only attendee as the other participant was stuck due to a bus breakdown.

He took me through the car preparation, talking about the basics. In order to learn more, you need to ask the questions rather than expect gyan to be spouted out. The basic MAI requirements are clearly laid out. Once this is complete, you have a good idea about the back end of rallying, it ain't about jump in and drive, there is a lot more behind this, from the choice of navigator to the level of detail to be collected on a recce.

Folded myself into the Esteem, the roll cage eliminated my need to practice yoga and we proceeded to some empty land in Whitefield which Jagat has access too.

Parked the car and we marked out the proposed track which was reversible. A lot of kids looking after cows and also from a nearby Madrassa came to look and enjoy.

Then, it was the driver's seat - "keep it in second and get familiar"
I got going but my mistakes were getting evident, was trying to control the car into the corner, too little use of brakes, gripping the wheel too tight, not compensating for sand traps ...probably a whole lot more.

I was then asked to use the gears, I had focussed on the track and not really focussed on the car, also I was being too kind to the car (not mine!). Jagat the took over and showed me how it must be done. I could see the amount of dust thrown up comparatively.

Got back behind the wheel and improvements happened but inconsistently. I was still not braking early enough and too enthu into the corners. Additionally, I turned into early.

Stopped for a breather. We then walked around the track and I was instructed on how it should be done and what I was doing. Got back in and I did reasonably better but I needed to take a wider line and be more consistent with the throttle.

Another break, and another few rounds. There were inconsistencies, I was conscious of my mistakes but when thinking of one, I made another. (old man can be heard saying "you think too much" !)

We then reversed the the direction and got going, this time, I was giving it more stick. I was getting caught out on the slower bends but my overall speeds were higher. Jagat was upfront that i had a long way to go in improving my consistency before I learnt more.

I came out learning much more on the need to be consistent and the fact that I am too aggressive on corners. My steering control improved but my cornering lines need a rethink.

Anyway, thanks Jagat, for being upfront, patient and approachable.

Did I get my money's worth ? Well I know, no other place where you get the attention of a major national rally champ for a full 5 hours who lets you push hard from start. You also get clear feedback, not a feelgood report to justify the fee paid.

[jagat nanjappa]

Ajit,

I like the old man bit in your report. I am quite used to it though, as i grew up with grey hair and was referred to as a old man since birth. Hahaha


Anyways it was nice to have you at the school and appreciate your enthu.

[Jaggu]

i think you should meet with old man of the forum also, lot of similarities starting from looks