It may be early days in the 2018 national championship but already, Unissan Bakunda and Umar Kakande are fancying their chances at this year’s title
After NRC round three, the points’ calculations put Bakunda and Kakande third in the standings. In a Mitsubishi Evo IV, Bakunda and Kakande clocked their third NRC podium finish this year at the recently concluded Masaka Rally.
“The current performance is a result of my my team. I have excellent and determined mechanics and co-driver who we share equal targets. Plus of course God who has been on our side,” said Bakunda.
Despite the point’s deduction on their Group S classified car, the crew is currently second on the NRC leaderboard with 161 points; 39 points behind NRC leader Jas Mangat.
And given the current form, consistency and luck, Bakunda says he is certainly a challenger for the NRC title this year.
“The team wants a podium finish on the overall championship. We are still behind Jas mangat, so for now an overall podium finish is enough. But incase of a win, it will be perfect for us,” he asserted.
Reigning NRC champion Christakis Fitidis is in third place on the standings with 140 points followed by Susan Muwonge on 110 points. Kepher Walubi comes in the fifth with 105points.
However, with four rounds remaining, the title chase is expected to tighten up with the current leaders aiming to consolidate their positions.
The next round of NRC is scheduled for June 1-3 in Fort Portal.
Latest NRC standings
1. Jas Mangat/Joseph Kamya200points
2. UnisanBakunda/UmarKakande161pts
3. Christakis Fitidis/Eric Nzamwita 140
4. Susan Muwonge/Edmond Kyeyune 110
5. Kepher Walubi/Anthony Mugambwa 105
6. Ponsiano Lwakataka/Sam Mugisha 95
7. Ashiraf Ahmed/Edward Kiyingi 90
8. Duncan Mubiru/Musa Nsubuga 75
9. Fred Wampamba/Paul Musaazi 65
10. Hassan Alwi/Enoch Olinga 50
11. Ronald Sebuguzi/Leon Ssenyange 50