BBC Top Gear: Rally Cross cheaper than Golf?

On last night's edition of BBC Top Gear (Sunday 11th March 2012) , messrs Clarkson, Hammond and May proposed that it costs more to enjoy playing golf as a hobby than it does to take up motor sport. An interesting argument we thought, even though the delivery of the challenge set forward by Jeremy Clarkson lacked a little research to say the least (but let's face it, his brand of journalism isn't based on facts most of the time)! Clarkson, May and Hammond all bought relatively cheap cars to take part, against other enthusiasts, in a rally cross motor race - resulting in funny, enjoyable and entertaining television for a Sunday night.

But does golf cost more than Rally Cross? We think not.
OK, Top Gear had their fun, but it was just one day and at one race event. They didn't factor in for most of the equipment required, insurance costs, transporting the race vehicle to and from events (on a trailer presumably?), wear and tear or replacement parts. Here's what the Motor Sports Association (MSA) recommend BEFORE going onto the track:


The MSA specify that drivers must wear full safety equipment, including a helmet and fireproof racing suit.

• Helmets  – They cost up to £300
• Fireproof racesuits – again up to £300

This additional equipment is optional, but advisable:

• Racing gloves – Cost: up to £60
• Racing boots – Cost: up to £100
• Fireproof top/long johns – £75
• Fireproof balaclava – approx. £15.
• Fireproof socks – approx. £12

Event fees range from spending as little as £250, rising to £100,000 a year.
A car with the safety features will cost you around £1500.

So the answer is, No, it isn't cheaper to take up Rally Cross compared to enjoying golf as a pastime. Like all pastimes, you choose to do that which provides the most reward and enjoyment for you. Who cares what you choose to spend?! If you love it, go for it!

We just thought that we had to stand up for the golfing community that we've served for almost 30 years and put the record straight.

Here's an interesting point for you: The cost of  a set of golf clubs hasn't really changed for the past 10 years (maybe more), and they don't run on petrol or diesel! How much has the cost of motoring increased over the same period?

Happy Golfing