If you're a fan of rally racing and the thrill of speed, then you've likely heard of the Gravel Co. YouTube channel. Ryan, the creator, has taken his love for the sport and turned it into a reality, quite literally. In this article, we'll dive into Ryan's journey from a passionate fan to a regional rally champion, and explore the challenges and triumphs along the way.
A Passionate Fan's Journey
Ryan's story begins with a simple question: Can the skills learned from a video game translate to real-life rally racing? With a background in SCCA-style rallycross and a tiny amount of stage rally experience, Ryan decided to take the plunge and build a rally car from scratch. He acquired a previously prepared rally Subaru Impreza with a EJ22T engine, a solid starting point for his racing career.
What makes Ryan's approach unique is his decision to start with a two-wheel drive machine, despite the common recommendation to begin with a safer, slower car. His reasoning? A challenge. He wanted to jump into the deep end, and there's something to be said for embracing the thrill of the unknown.
The Car's Journey
The car, a 1990s turbocharged all-wheel drive Subaru, had seen better days. It had been largely unused for ten years and needed significant work to get it rally-ready. Ryan took it to VEX Performance, a professional rally preparation shop, where he learned the ins and outs of the car's strengths and weaknesses. The engine, a mismatch of WRX components, was polished and refined, setting the stage for the upcoming season.
The Preparation Process
Ryan's preparation videos are a must-watch for anyone considering a similar project. He spent countless hours straightening the car's front end, addressing issues like a crushed radiator core support, and ensuring the car was legal for the Canadian Rally Championship. The process was meticulous, and Ryan's dedication to the task is inspiring.
The Season's Results
The 2025 season was a success, with Ryan and his co-driver winning their regional-level all-wheel drive class and almost every round they competed in. Despite the car's worn and tired flat four engine, they finished near the overall podium, showcasing the potential of their build.
However, Ryan knew that to compete for overall wins in 2026, they needed more power. The old turbocharged engine was underperforming, and a flat six engine from a modern Subaru was the solution. This upgrade, along with the team's dedication, could take their performance to the next level.
The Future of Rally Racing
Ryan's journey is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. With the right resources, a bit of gumption, and a whole lot of desire, anyone can join the ranks of regional stage rally competition. The cost? Around $11,000 for a beat-up rally car, and the potential for incredible results.
As Ryan continues his journey, he invites us to join him. He encourages us to explore lesser-known builders on social media, sharing their unique builds and the stories behind them. Whether it's cars, motorcycles, snowmobiles, or even DIY fighter jets, Ryan wants to hear about it. His goal is to showcase the diverse world of automotive enthusiasts and the incredible things they create.
In conclusion, Ryan's story is a reminder that dreams can become reality with hard work and determination. The Gravel Co. channel is a must-watch for anyone interested in rally racing, and Ryan's journey is an inspiration to all who dare to dream big.
