Lumala @60 Mum @90 Birthday Rally Stages Defined

By Mwambazi Lawrence
Mbarara is full with motorsport energy as the Lumala @60 Mum @90 Birthday Rally prepares to kick off. With a strong entry of 34 officially confirmed crews, today was a flurry of activity as teams did their reconnaissance (recce) of the rally stages. This crucial step allowed drivers and co-drivers to familiarize themselves with the routes and set clear strategies ahead the action that starts on Friday morning.

As we gear up for the action, here’s a breakdown of the rally stages and what lies ahead for the crews:
Mama1 Stage
- Distance: 14.32 km
- Route: Biharwe to Kanyaryeru
- Details: Serving as both the first Competitive Stage (CS1) and the Power Stage, Mama1 promises an intense start to the rally. The stage features twisty and sharp corners, with the first 8 km characterized by loose surfaces that demand impeccable coordination between drivers and co-drivers. Hidden bridges and jumps including three significant humps in one of the villages add complexity to this technical stage. A prime viewing point awaits fans at Kanyaryeru, offering a front-row seat to the drama.

Mama2 Stage
- Distance: 23.58 km
- Route: Biharwe to Sanga
- Details: Sharing 40% of its route with Mama1, this stage continues the theme of twisty, sharp corners and loose surfaces, but extends the challenge with a longer distance. Drivers will navigate 10% of rough terrain and encounter narrow corners that tighten unexpectedly, making precision key. Any errors here could prove costly, as there’s no service break before tackling the marathon Lumala stage. Mama2 serves as CS3 and CS4. Am not wrong to call this stage “the relationship test” one missed note from the co-driver and things get tense faster than a family argument over Christmas dinner.

Lumala Stage
- Distance: 30.62 km
- Route: Akyapa to Kibega
- Details: Previously known as the Akyapa stage, this is the rally’s longest and most pivotal stage. Acting as CS4 and CS6, the Lumala stage is expected to shake up the leaderboard. With a smooth but loose surface, tempting drops, and long straights, this stage demands a blend of speed and caution. Drivers will push their machines to the limit while navigating slow jumps and many brows that require heightened awareness. Fans can expect high-speed action. For the drivers, it’s a test of endurance and for their cars, it’s a test of how long they can pretend to be bulletproof..

Mwesigwa Resort Super Special Stage
- Distance: 1.92 km per lane
- Format: Double head-to-head
- Details: The rally’s entertainment centerpiece, the Mwesigwa Resort Super Special Stage, promises an electrifying spectacle. Drivers will compete head-to-head on parallel lanes featuring eight hairpins and a 360-degree roundabout at the center. The stage’s surface conditions dusty if dry, muddy if wet will add to the excitement. Fans can look forward to witnessing intense battles up close. Note to drivers: if it rains, the mud bath is complimentary. If it doesn’t, prepare for a dust storm so thick you might mistake it for the Sahara.
Power Stage
- Route: Repeat of Mama1
- Details: This final stage doubles as the Power Stage, offering crews a chance to earn crucial extra points. Drivers are expected to go all out, pushing their cars and skills to the absolute limit in a bid for rally supremacy. It’s the stage where legends are made—or where you discover just how loudly a co-driver can yell “SLOW DOWN” before their voice gives out.
With such a variety of stages from technical challenges to high-speed marathons the Lumala @60 Mum @90 Birthday Rally is set to deliver unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for updates as the event unfolds, promising action-packed competition in the heart of Mbarara,