Excitement Peaks as 30 Crews Gear Up for Thrilling MPU Mbarara Rally 2023
Story by Mwambazi lawrence
With just hours remaining until the start of the much-anticipated MPU Mbarara Rally 2023, the atmosphere is charged with excitement as 30 crews prepare to embark on a heart-pounding adventure through challenging terrain. Led by seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the rally promises to deliver high-octane action and intense competition.
Notable contenders include the likes of Jas Mangat, eager to seize early championship points, Opposing Mangat’s bid for dominance are the formidable duo of Ponsiano Lwakataka and Paul Musazi, whose Subaru N12b, affectionately dubbed “Musota,” has garnered a reputation for its relentless speed and precision handling. Adding to the thrill is Ronald Sebuguzi, the sole representative of the Ford Fiesta Proto family, poised to showcase his skills amidst fierce competition.
Ponsiano Lwakataka’s N12b ready to set the stages on fire
Equity Bank’s sponsorship adds another layer of intensity to the fray as Dr. Moustapha Mukasa straps into his upgraded Mitsubishi Evo9, eyes blazing with determination to reclaim his standing in the rally circuit. The disappointment of the 2023 season fuels his hunger for redemption, driving him to push himself beyond his limits and showcase the true potential of his meticulously prepared vehicle. With every twist of the steering wheel and every calculated maneuver, Mukasa and his co-driver Mwambazi Lawrence navigate the challenging terrain with unwavering focus and precision.
Moustapha Mukasa,s recently acquired Ev09 formarly owned by Carl Tundo
The rally also sees newcomers Joshua Muwanguzi and Hamza Lwanga stepping up to Division 2, ready to test their mettle in their purple N12. Meanwhile, debutants Musa Segabwe and Matihas Kiyega make their CRC category entrance, driving a Mitsubishi Evo9 after completing the necessary auto cross events.
Musa Segabwe,s Evo9 ready for the long stages
Fred Busulwa, known as the underdog, reunites with experienced co-driver Mildred Kibuuka in their Subaru N10, aiming to defy the odds and secure a surprise podium finish. Ibrahim Lubega aims to make waves in his Toyota Fx, a car that boasts a record-breaking performance despite being considered inferior by some.
However, the rally will notably miss the presence of 2023 champion Yassin Nasser, who opted for the Eldoret Rally in Kenya. Duncan Mubiru’s Ford Fiesta Proto is undergoing a complete overhaul in Latvia, while John Consta and Peter Kalule have business commitments and unforeseen circumstances respectively. Omar Dauda is also absent as he gathers funds for his EvoX.
As the rally kicks off, Day 1 will feature the challenging 25km Katebe stage, starting along the Ibanda road and ending in Biharwe. This stage offers a mix of twisty narrow roads, flat-out action, and wide twisty mediums with jumps, testing the skills of drivers to the limit. Following this, crews will tackle the 14.49km Kakoba stage, which will also serve as the power stage. Known for its clean and wide roads with numerous jumps and bridges, this stage demands cautious driving.
One of the stretches in the katebe stage cs1
After a short service break, fans will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the crews as they tackle the 3.23km super stage at the golf course. This stage, comprising 90% tarmac, features many handbrake turns for fans to enjoy. Stay tuned for updates as the action unfolds at the MPU Mbarara City Rally 2023.
Stay tuned for all the latest updates as the MPU Mbarara City Rally 2023 unfolds, promising a spectacle of speed, skill, and excitement like never before.