Sidi brothers recognised for their efforts

By Oscar Pilipili

After years of trying to uphold the image of Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC), Sidi brothers, Abdul and Anwar, were finally recognised for their services to the sport at 2010 Kenya Motor Sports Foundation (KMSF) Awards gala.

The Sidis, so synonymous with rally cars over the last three decades, were presented with a special award for promoting the sport through local and international media.

"It is very encouraging to be recognised for the services after so many years running up and down the country in search of stories to help the sport and also have fun,’’ said Abdul.

Jaswinder Chana hands Motosports Promotional Award to Anwar Sidi (centre) and his brother Abdul trophies at KMSF Awards Gala at a Nairobi hotel on Sunday. [PHOTO: BONIFACE OKENDO/STAndard ]

Sidi added: "Rallying has been in our blood for many years. If anything was said negatively about the rallies, it would hurt our feelings. That is the passion we have for the sport.’’

Abdul and Anwar have been associated with motor sports publicity for over two decades. Anwar is a famous photographer while Abdul is a motor sports writer and rally navigator who rose to fame as co-driver to one of Kenya’s best known Safari Rally drivers, Patrick Njiru. Among the regular features from the Sidis is the much read ‘Sidis Bulletin.’

It gives regular information on the state of the KCB KNRC at every round of the series. Abdul was also presented with another prestigious award in memory of the late Johnny Hellier.

He was recognised for his contribution towards the development of the sport. The launch of the Abdul Sidi Rally Academy is one of his major achievements. Over 25 students stepped into the sport last year as result of the school.

The former chairman of the Kenya Rally Drivers Association has also earned the respect of the leading rally drivers for acting as a bridge between organisers and sponsors at the highest level of the KNRC series.

"Abdul has done more for the sport than any of us. He deserves to be recognised for all the good reasons over many years," said Ian Duncan. Duncan, the former Safari Rally winner and multiple national champion was presented with the Motor Sportsman of the Year trophy for his outstanding display in autocross, motocross, rhino charge, cross country to rallying.

Raaji Bharij and Raju Chager were voted the Best Upcoming Driver and navigator, while Elodie Sampere received the Most ‘Meritorious Lady Competitor’ trophy. Kisumu Club was voted the ‘Best Rally Organisers’.