Hamza says event was a learning experience as he is forced to retire

Rally driver Hamza Anwar during an unveiling ceremony by his sponsors Safaricom. [Courtesy]

The ongoing tenth edition of the East African Safari Classic Rally has proved to be no respecter of person.

It is punishing for both the young and old. One of the casualties is the ‘baby’ of the rally Hamza Anwar.

The 23-year old FIA Youngstar Program driver bowed out on the opening day of the championships after he encountered mechanical gremlins, but said it was a learning experience.

“My camshaft malfunctioned, we are in the process of replacing it,” the former autocross national champion said.

Anwar is among the Kenyan drivers who are already out of the tough eight-day event.

Anwar, who was making his debut in the EASCR, admitted he found the going tough in the 5000km journey that will end in Watamu on February 18. His 555 Datsun 1600 went through the 33km opening stage in Eburru, Naivasha smoothly on Thursday but struggled to cope in Stage 2 between Poror and Kipsaos within the Kerio Valley.

“This section really battered smaller cars like mine. Our camshaft broke down in the 74km Stage 3 along Nyaru-Kiptagich route. This smoked out all our dreams of a respectable finish in this rally, he said.