As he participated in this year’s Africa Rally Championship (ARC) series, Christakis Fitidis was taking down notes he believes will help uplift motorsport in Uganda.
The 65-year-old is fresh from the final round of ARC – the Zambia International Rally – that took place last weekend. He finished sixth overall, securing the third position in the ARC.
He says Zambia rally was his best event of the series.
“I have really enjoyed myself doing ARC. ARC gives you a wider perception of how other countries organise their events.
“Zambia rally was such a great event. It was my first time to race in the country. But what I can say everything was perfectly done.
“We did convoy recce which was exciting. We were provided with eats and refreshments at the time. The spirit for the sport was high among officials, perfect routes, time management, well organised service park, mention it all,” he said.
Fitidis has now called on Ugandan officials to learn from other countries to improve the sport.
“I don’t know why Ugandan officials don’t attend more of such events to copy one or a few things and apply home.
“The most important aspect I have seen here (in Zambia) is people have strong spirit for the sport.
“Everything during the Zambia rally was done on its appropriate time. We had timecards days before the day. Service was well organised, everything moved as indicated in the actual programme.
Fitidis however believes Uganda can easily improve.
“Most things are delayed (in Uganda) since someone is still planning on how to benefit from it. And once that mindset is dropped, Uganda can greatly improve in several areas of the sport.”
Fitidis looks forward to a new challenge next year.
“I am likely to take on the Zambian championship next year. The competition has grown in the country and they have everything set for one to enjoy the sport,” he said.
Fitidis currently leads the Uganda rally championship with one round to go.