All Systems Go for the Grand Finale

By Mwambazi Lawrence

Months of anticipation have finally boiled down to mere hours as motorsport enthusiasts brace for the Kabalega Hoima Rally 2024, the grand finale of the season that will crown the national champion. Earlier this morning, all participating crews underwent scrutineering at Total Main Street Hoima, ensuring their machines are fit for competition. The ceremonial start later in the evening at Mika Eco Resort Hoima set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying weekend.

Day 1 roars to life at 8:22 AM with the 18.40 km John Kakonge Stage, a technical opener designed to test the crews’ precision and pace. It will be followed by the second-longest stage of the rally, the 23.10 km Summa Stadium Stage by end of this stage we shall begin to  see who came to race and who came for the scenery

After these two intense stages, crews will head to Kontik Hotel for a much-needed 30-minute service before taking on the crowd-favorite head-to-head Super Special Stage, If there’s one thing fans love, it’s drivers going head-to-head because who doesn’t enjoy a little dust in the face while cheering? This will run twice to cap off the day’s action.

Day 2 will be a true test of endurance and strategy, covering 156.40 km divided across five challenging stages:

• Buseruka Stage (17.86 km)
• Bugambe Stage (16.50 km)
• Power Stage 1 (9.21 km)
• Nyarugabu Stage (29.09 km)
• Power Stage 2, a repeat of the earlier Power Stage.

By 1 PM on Sunday, Uganda will have its 2024 National Rally Champion.

The championship race is razor-tight, with Jas Mangat leading the pack at 260 points. Hot on his heels is Ronald Sebuguzi, just three points behind with 257 points. Dr. Moustapha Mukasa has 225points and he is the wildcard in this mix, ready to capitalize on any slip-ups by the leaders.

Another thrilling subplot is the battle in Division 2, where Didas Matsiko and Isaac Sozzi are separated by a mere two points, promising an exhilarating duel to the finish line.

Charles Ssemengo, Clerk of the Course, described this rally as one of the fastest of the season. “Let’s hope it doesn’t rain,” he remarked, “but regardless, the organizers have done everything in their power to ensure safety remains paramount. I urge our dear fans to keep off the roads during the rally and obey safety marshals at all times.”

With high stakes and fierce competition, motorsport fans are in for an unforgettable weekend. As the engines rev and dust flies, the countdown begins to crown a champion and close the curtain on a season that was.

About The Author

Mwambazi

Mwambazi Lawrence is a passionate motorsport writer and an intrepid co-driver, fearlessly tackling the rugged landscapes of Uganda’s racing circuits. His immersive experiences fuel his storytelling, allowing him to weave exhilarating narratives that resonate with the pulse of the race. With a keen eye for detail and a love for speed, Lawrence brings the excitement of motorsport to life, inviting readers to join him on a thrilling journey through the world of motorsport.

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