All Eyes on UMC Fort Portal Tourism City Rally
By Mwambazi Lawrence
The spotlight shifts to the UMC Fort Portal Tourism City Rally, marking the 5th round of the National Rally Championship. Scheduled from August 9th to 11th, this thrilling event, organized by the Uganda Motor Club, promises to offer a clearer picture of the season’s endgame.
Leading the charge into Fort Portal are the dynamic duo of Jas Mangat and Enoch Olinga. Currently atop the leaderboard, their sights are firmly set on this year’s championship crown. In a strategic move, they opted out of the Zambia International Rally, the second round of the African Rally Championship, to focus their efforts on securing national glory.
Close on their heels is Dr. Moustapha Mukasa, whose calculated and consistent performances keep him within striking distance. With just 22 points separating Mukasa from the leading crew, any slip-up by Mangat and Olinga could see Mukasa seizing the opportunity to overtake.
In third place, the experienced team of Ronald Sebuguzi and Anthony Mugambwa holds strong with 143 points. Their skill and determination make them formidable contenders as the championship race intensifies.
In the 2WD championship, Ibrahim Lubega leads with 75 points, followed closely by Edward Kirumira with 58 points and Julius Semambo in third. Musa Ssegaabwe dominates the CRC Category, trailed by Haruna Kataza, each poised to make their mark in Fort Portal.
The rally will traverse the scenic yet challenging terrains of Harugongo, Rwenzori Tea Estate, Mpanga Tea Estate, and Kyakaigo. The stages are set to test the mettle of even the most seasoned drivers.
Day 1 (Saturday) The rally kicks off with the Harugongo stage, covering 36.31 km. This is followed by the Segamu 14 Consult stage (5.52 km) and culminates in the adrenaline-pumping Super Special Stage at Kyakaigo Race Track, a swift 2.32 km dash.
Day 2 (Sunday)Action resumes with the Mukwano Karmali stage (15.21 km) in the morning. Next up is the Late Sewava Kivumbi stage (16.13 km), followed by the Hajji Abas Balinda stage (12.82 km), which will be repeated. The day concludes with the Outlook Uganda stage (5.52 km) and the Power Stage in the second loop, where the rally’s climax will unfold.
The UMC Fort Portal Tourism City Rally is not just another race; it’s a crucial juncture in the National Rally Championship. As competitors push their limits, fans can expect breathtaking maneuvers, strategic brilliance, and possibly, a shake-up in the championship standings.
Will Jas Mangat and Enoch Olinga hold their lead, or will Dr. Moustapha Mukasa or another dark horse rise to the occasion? The answers lie in the heart of Fort Portal’s demanding terrain. Prepare for an unforgettable weekend of high-octane action and edg -of your-seat excitement!
About The Author
