The 2018 Kenya National Rally Championship got off to a stellar performance as crews launched their title bids in Nakuru.
All crews put up an extremely tight battle in the event’s six stages, but it was Onkar Rai and Gareth Dawe that came up top.
Onkar Rai fared through the 150.80kilometres with the fastest time of 1hr 28minutes, 4seconds in a what was a hotly contested race with Baldev Chager
“It was a brilliantly organised event. I was happy with all the aspects of the event. I am sure next time will be even better.”
“Yes, we are very happy being able to compete against the top drivers and come out on top. It was a very tough fight with Baldev. He put pressure on us till the end,” he told Kawowo Sports.
Rai’s sublime performance earned him wins in five of the six stages. Even a puncture in stage three could not limit his ambitions for the second straight home victory.
The crew was earlier this year joined by Finnish rally ace Tapio Laukkanen to advance. Rai is positive about the addition.
“We have only started training a week ago, and already there a few things we have changed though we need to make sure we effect those points in the next rally.
Rai and Gareth Dawe now stand top on of the KNRC leaderboard with 25 points.
Baldev Chager also put up a stunning performance in Nakuru to settle for second position overall with a stage win.
Chager and co-driver Ravi Soni were 16 seconds behind Onkar Rai.
Reigning KNRC champion Ian Duncan settled for third followed by 2017 Kenya Motorsport Personality of the Year Manvir Baryan in fourth position overall.
Carlo Tundo sealed the top five positions while Tavjeer Rai and Jasmeet Chana finished sixth and seventh respectively.
Only sixteen crews of 24 that started completed the event.
The next KNRC round, the Safari Rally is scheduled for 16-18th March.