Time to dust off old machines: Spectators expect exhilarating shows at KQ Safari Classic

TopFry 1000 CLASSIC RALLY Driver Carl Tundo before his car developed mechanical problem and opting out of the race during the Top Fry 1000 Classic Rally in Baringo County on Sunday, Dec 11, 2016. [PHOTO: JONAH ONYANGO/STANDARD]

Kenyan legends Carl Tundo, Baldev Chager and Ian Duncan are seeded in the top five.

Vipingo Ridge in the North Coast has been designated as the venue for the 2017 Kenya Airways East African Safari Classic Rally shakedown.

Spectators will be treated to some exhilarating displays of rallying artistry prior to the first day of the event, which zooms off from Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa in Mombasa on Thursday.

Rally Manager Pipi Renu said the shakedown would not only offer teams an opportunity to try out their machines, but will also offer fans a sneak preview of what to expect from the cars. 

“The shakedown will be a fun day for spectators in a safe and conducive set up where all cars will be required to go through the 6km stretch,” said Renu.

“This will offer foreign and local competitors a chance to test and put final touches to their machines before the event.”

The Audi Quattro will also go through the 6km stretch for entertainment purposes and will be on display for fans at the Sarova Whitesands. 

Meanwhile, the first group of Tuthill technicians arrived in Kenya last week and have started setting up pre-rally testing headquarters at Vipingo Ridge. Four Tuthill Porsche 911s are already on site.

“This year’s event is a little bit smaller than previous editions. We’ve run some huge squads in previous years as part of an entry list totalling more than 50 cars and crews. But this year, it is closer to 40 rally entries in total, so it is a bit easier on everyone,” said Richard Tuthill.

Despite the reduced field, it will be no less competitive. Stig Blomqvist returns in the Team Tido Race4Health Porsche 911, partnered by Mattias Adielsson.

Roger Samuelsson is also back with another Team Tido Race4Health Porsche 911, partnered by the experienced Robin Friberg.

Richard Jackson and Ryan Champion will compete in a Yorkshire Porsche 911.

South Africa’s Geoff Bell and Kenyan legends, Carl Tundo, Baldev Chager and Ian Duncan are seeded in the top five.