Race to intensify as penalty is scrapped

By James Waindi

A fierce battle for supremacy is expected in this year’s Kenya Rally Championships after Kenya Motor Sports Federation (KMSF) scrapped off the two per cent efficiency penalty on drivers.

KMSF Chairman Jim Kahumbura made the announcement yesterday during the launch of the KCB Kenya National Rally Championships at a Nairobi hotel. This is good news for drivers with non-homologated rally cars, who have in the past suffered the penalty.

"We decided to scrap off the penalty because we want to see more competition. The two per cent penalty hindered many drivers from winning races and the title will now be free for all," said Kahumbura.

Dipped in position

Last year, veteran rally driver Ian Duncan won the sixth and seventh rounds of the championships, the Kajiado rally and Guru Nanak rally, but eventually dipped in position after suffering the penalty because he was driving a Nissan Patrol pick-up which is non-homologated.

Kahumbura also said the federation had introduced a budget class category in this year’s championships to attract drivers with a minimum budget and small cars. The chairman also promised fans to expect a fast and thrilling rallies throughout the season after world rally governing body FIA increased the turbo restrictor from 32mm to 33mm.

Meanwhile, KNRC title sponsors KCB have sponsored this season to the tune of Sh30 million.

Speaking during the cheque presentation ceremony, KCB Corporate Affairs Manager Kepha Bosire urged KMSF to put up clear modalities to ensure safety throughout the season. Commissioner of Sports Gordon Oluoch, who graced the occasion, praised KMSF for introducing new roots that would see drivers compete in rural arrears where there are many fans.