Kabalega Hoima Rally 2024 Decides NRC Champion
By Mwambazi Lawrence
It’s crunch time! The Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC) reaches its climax this weekend with the Kabalega Hoima Rally scheduled for 23rd to 25th November 2024. This final round of the National Rally Championship (NRC), roars to life. With three top drivers locked in a no-holds-barred battle for the coveted national title, the stakes have never been higher.
The championship leader, Jas Mangat, cruises into Hoima with 260 points. As he steps out of his Hyundai i20 R5, there’s an aura of calm confidence around him. But don’t be fooled! Behind those aviators is a man calculating every second he needs to stay ahead of his rivals. A win here would secure his place at the top, but with just three points separating him from second place, there’s no room for error as one mistake could spell the difference between champagne showers and consolatory hugs.
NRC leader Jas Mangat negotiates a hairpin during the SMC Masaka Rally earlier this year.
“Jas is the man to beat,” says one fan. “But even the best cars have betrayed their drivers, so let’s see!” A victory guarantees glory, but with Ronald Ssebuguzi breathing down his neck, the pressure is mounting.
Close on Mangat’s heels with 257 points is Ronald Ssebuguzi. Driving a Ford Fiesta Proto, Ssebuguzi is known for his competitive spirit and ability to deliver under pressure. The Shell-sponsored veteran is determined to pull off a surprise and claim the championship in dramatic fashion. This guy doesn’t just race; he fights.
Shell sponsored Ronald Ssebuguzi will be out for maximum points to enable him clinch the championship.
Then there’s Dr. Moustapha Mukasa, sitting on 225 points and itching for an upset. Mukasa’s approach has been so steady this season that fans have nicknamed him “The Silent Assassin.” The Equity Bank-sponsored driver doesn’t talk much; he lets his Mitsubishi Evo 9 do the talking on the tracks. Mukasa’s hopes took a hit after a disappointing outing in Gulu Rally, but his team promises he’s back in full form and his unpredictable nature could spell trouble for the frontrunners.
Equity Bank’s Dr Moustapha Mukasa will be fighting to stay within striking range awaiting for the spoils from the top 2 crews.
While he’s not in the championship fight, Nasser Mutebi is here to remind everyone why he’s the 2010 national champion. Piloting a Mitsubishi Evo 9 R4, Mutebi’s flamboyant driving style will have fans lining up to see him drift through corners like he’s auditioning for Fast & Furious: Hoima Drift.
2010 national champion Nasser Mutebi will be out to prove why he is a champion.
“I may not win the championship, but Ishall win their hearts,” Mutebi said. And let’s face it, if there was an NRC award for the most entertaining driver, Mutebi would win it.
While the big boys fight for the crown, Division 2 is a soap opera in its own right. Didas Matsiko and Isaac Sozzi are practically tied, with 60 and 59 points, respectively. It’s Subaru vs. Subaru, ego vs. ego.
Isaac Sozzi will be looking for maximum points to clinch the div2 category.
The banter between these two drivers has been louder than their exhaust pipes. Matsiko recently joked, “If Sozzi beats me, I’ll retire and open a chapati stall in Hoima!” Sozzi fired back, “Don’t worry, I’ll give you a discount on your first Rolex after the rally!” With this level of rivalry, we wouldn’t be surprised if their cars raced ahead while the drivers were busy side eyeing each other.
Didas Matsiko will be fighting to stay on top of the Div2 category.
The Kabalega Hoima Rally 2024 will cover a total distance of 228.12 kilometers, with 126.97 kilometers of competitive stages and 101.15 kilometers of liaison sections. The event will feature nine stages, including the longest stage, the 23.10-kilometer Summa Stadium stage, and the shortest, the 9.21-kilometer Power Stage.
The final curtain is ready to rise. With a tight points race, experienced competitors, and unpredictable twists, the Kabalega Hoima Rally promises to deliver a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 NRC season. Will Mangat hold his nerve? Can Ssebuguzi stage an upset? Or will Dr. Mukasa surprise everyone with a tactical masterclass?.
Let the engines roar, and may the best driver take the crown!
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