Night Stages Return to Uganda Rally in UMC Fort Portal Rally 2024
By Mwambazi Lawrence
Fort Portal, Uganda – The thrill of night-time rally racing is set to make a dazzling return to Uganda with the upcoming Fort Portal Rally, scheduled to be the 5th round of the Uganda National Rally Championship. This eagerly anticipated event will feature a 5.52-kilometer night stage, marking a significant moment since the last night stage in the SMC Masaka Rally of 2016.
Night stages are notorious for pushing drivers to their limits, testing their skills and concentration under challenging conditions. The decision to include a night stage in this year’s Fort Portal Rally promises to deliver an electrifying spectacle for both competitors and spectators alike.
The night stage is slated to commence from the outskirts of the Kyakaigo race track, traversing through its challenging terrain before culminating inside the race track itself. This twisty and technical route will demand precise navigation and swift reflexes from drivers, adding an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the competition.
In the 2016 SMC Masaka Rally, night stages proved to be a formidable challenge for many crews, highlighting the importance of strategy and adaptability in low-light conditions. Fans who gather to witness the Fort Portal night stage can expect edge-of-the-seat action as drivers navigate through the darkness, headlights cutting through the night and engines roaring under the starlit sky.
As the Uganda National Rally Championship enters its crucial 5th round, the competition for the top spot remains fierce. Jas Mangat currently leads the standings with an impressive 200 points, followed closely by Moustapha Mukasa with 178 points. Ronald Sebuguzi is also within striking distance with 143 points, making the championship battle a tight affair heading into Fort Portal.
Rally Schedule Highlights
Saturday, Day 01:
Harugongo CS: A challenging 36.31-kilometer stage to kick off the rally.
Kyakaigo SSS: A short and intense 2.32-kilometer stage.
Segamu 14 Consult CS: The anticipated 5.52-kilometer night stage.
Sunday, Day 02:
Mukwano Karmali CS: A longer 15.21-kilometer stage testing endurance and speed.
Late Sewava Kivumbi-Mpanga CS: Two runs of the 16.13-kilometer stage.
Hajji Abasi Balinda CS: Double runs of the 12.82-kilometer stage.
Outlook Uganda: Concludes with two runs of the 5.52-kilometer stage, serving as the Power Stage for additional points.
The rally promises to be a test of resilience and skill across its varied stages, culminating in the thrilling night stage that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on both competitors and fans. With the championship standings so close, every stage in Fort Portal will be crucial for drivers aiming to make their mark in the history books of Ugandan rallying.