Time control (TC)
Marked control point where a crew's arrival time is recorded against the target time (abbreviated TC).
The time control, abbreviated TC, is a marked control point along the route where a crew's arrival time is recorded and compared with the prescribed target time. Unlike a secret control, the time control is usually announced and noted in the roadbook.
At the time control the crew checks in within its target time. Any deviation, too early or too late, can incur penalty points. Time controls divide the rally into sections and ensure that all crews follow a common schedule.
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Related terms
Regularity rally
Classic-car motorsport where precision counts, not speed: hold prescribed average speeds and target times as exactly as possible.
Time card
Control card issued by the organiser on which arrival and passage times are recorded or stamped at the controls.
Control point
Defined location on the route where a control takes place – such as a time, transit or passage control.