Patel: Splash the money, then leave the rest to me
Sports
By
Ben Ahenda
| Jun 12, 2023
As the world shifts its focus to World Rally Championships (WRC) Safari Rally in Kenya next week, Kenya National Rally Championships champion Karan Patel is willing to compete and conquer some of the world's best drivers, but he has one challenge.
Karan's problem is that he's in a big financial quagmire that won't allow him to compete effectively against other financially endowed world rally champions.
"If you or someone you know is interested in this sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me directly. Let's create something extraordinary together", Karan told Standard Sports in a statement.
He admitted lacking the financial muscles to compete against these top drivers.
Karan has appealed for financial assistance from any well-wishers, which will go a long way in giving him some financial. All he wishes for is to realise his cherished dream.
"Yes, I'm ready and willing to go for the big assignment, but what I have at hand is not enough for my me and my team to effectively compete against these top global drivers. I appeal for your financial help," Karan said.
Although the five-day-competition has been fully sponsored by KCB Bank, who are the main sponsors, Karan said the sponsorship from the financial institution is not enough to cater for all their services.
"This is why we need more sponsors to come on board and support us. We are ready to have their presence felt in it by having their names inscribed on either sides or at the front of our vehicle," he said in regard to the visibility of the sponsors.
The rally commences at Uhuru Gardens on June 22 and will race around Kasarani before making its way to Naivasha, the epic centre of the championship, where it'll run for four days.
The rally is scheduled to run for five days between June 22-26.
"By sponsoring us, your logo and message will be prominently displayed on our rally car, reaching a wide audience and generating significant visibility. This is a chance to connect with the motorsports enthusiasts globally," he said. Karan requires Sh10 million for him to compete effectively at the Safari Rally.
Sh8 million is meant for logistics and mechanical challenges of the rally in the first phase,, while the balance will take care of car repairs after the rally.
"Returning the vehicle to its original status after the championships is an expensive affair because it will prepare me for other national and international assignments thereafter," he said.
Karan will be co-driven by his longtime trusted-ally Touseef Khan in a Ford Fiesta R5, a machine the duo has been using in the Kenya National Rally Championships and Africa Rally Championships for the past five years.