The contention for the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally is officially defined following the closure of entries this week.
The Pearl Rally, scheduled for 7-9 May, will be the second round of the Africa Rally Championship. The rally will head back to Mbarara in Western Uganda.
At the close of entries on Tuesday this week, sixty-five (65) crews had confirmed participation. This is arguably the competition’s highest number of entries ever.
Over ten (10) foreign crews from Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda will be fighting for the event honours along with the nationals.
Reigning Africa rally champion Yasin Nasser will head Team Uganda’s charge.
“Last year’s Pearl Rally was one of the best-organised events we have had in Uganda. I believe this year, it is going to be even more exciting,” said Nasser.
“I am currently on a part-time schedule, and Pearl Rally was definitely a must-attend for me. We are looking forward to sharing the roads with the many foreign crews that are coming,” he added.
Karan Patel, who currently leads the ARC standings, will head the Kenyan team, which includes Samman Vohra, Jasmeet Chana, and Nikhil Sachania. Ahmed Huwel will lead the Tanzanian pack.
The event revs off with a 4.66km qualifying stage on Thursday, 7th May, followed by a 3.77 km shakedown at Mwesigwa Resort in Mbarara.
The Rally will consist of twelve (12) stages running a total competitive distance of 201.85kilometres.