A Learning Curve for Aine Sodo and Co-Driver Asumman Muhammed
By Mwambazi Lawrence
The motorsport journey is filled with highs and lows, and for Aine Sodo and his co-driver Asumman Muhammed, last weekend’s experience in Hoima was a stark reminder of the unpredictability of rallying. Driving a Mitsubishi Evo X backed by the Uganda Tourism Board, the duo displayed immense skill and determination, soaring to second place before an unfortunate incident cut their superb run short.
The Hoima rally began with a bang for the crew, who appeared well-prepared and confident. Sodo and Muhammed tackled the initial stages with precision, keeping the pressure on their rivals while thrilling fans with their speed and finesse. However, the challenge came in the seventh stage when their car approached a long medium right corner a little too fast. The corner, which had a loose surface, proved treacherous. During recce, the crew encountered it under wet conditions, unaware that the surface would dry up and become loose by race day.
Despite the mishap that saw them crash out, Sodo remains optimistic and resolute. Speaking to us, he recounted the incident:
“Everything happened so fast, but I believe God always has His plans for us. This is just part of the learning process, and we’ll come back stronger.”
Sodo’s rallying career has been a story of resilience and growth. After a sabbatical from the sport, he made a spectacular return during the sixth round of the National Rally Championship (NRC). Armed with a newly acquired Mitsubishi Evo X, he faced stiff competition but managed to finish fifth. This remarkable result came despite having limited time to familiarize himself with the powerful machine,a proof to his natural talent and determination.
The setback in Hoima has not deterred Sodo or his team. Preparations are already underway to rebuild the car and gear up for future events. The crew is using this experience as a stepping stone, focusing on refining their strategy and ensuring the car is in top condition for the upcoming season.
As the 2024 rallying season comes to a close, Sodo is already setting his sights on the 2025 championship. With the unwavering support of the Uganda Tourism Board as his primary sponsor, he is determined to make a mark. His goal is clear: to contest a full season and emerge as a strong contender for the NRC title.
Sodo’s partnership with the Uganda Tourism Board is significant, as it highlights the growing synergy between motorsport and tourism in Uganda. His performances not only promote the sport but also showcase Uganda’s beautiful landscapes to the world.
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