Mixed fortunes for Vivo crews as Jayant, Rommy exit classic competition

Aslam Khan in the Porsche 911 at the East African Safari Rally [Courtesy]

Vivo Energy sponsored team’s crews put in a spirited performance in the first half of the East African Safari Classic Rally which hit the road in Mombasa last Thursday. 

After nine challenging stages and two days of high attrition rate, the legendary Arusha industrialist Jayant Shah navigated by Arshad Khan was compelled to exit the event with a fractured thumb.

Rommy Bhamra had issues with his gearbox but will rejoin the event in Voi on the 7th day.

The only surviving member of the three-man team Aslam Khan was lying sixth after the first half of the Competition.

Rommy who is partnering up with Harvey Jutley in a Datsun 260Z wrapped up his day one campaign in 18th while Porsche 911's Jayant came through the gruelling stages in a credible 9th place.

The Vivo Energy trio took nothing for granted in this part of the world and the crews had to tackle some tricky conditions over the after stretches around Ol-Donyo Longido and Monduli, with plentiful mud, rocks and dust which have made the going particularly tough.

Mark Senteu, Vivo Energy Marketing Manager saluted the three drivers and had this to say: "Heavy rains and flash floods in Ponane, Monduli and Samora in Arusha, Tanzania made the event alot more challenging The cancellation of the third day of 2019 East African Safari Classic Rally, was a decision that took courage and true leadership, and one that aligns to our own cooperate pillars. We wish the participants well in the remaining second half."

"Motorsport is a sport that defined a generation right from the Coronation rally in the 50s to the East African Classic Rally today, it shaped how the world saw East Africa and Kenya. The world got to see what an amazing passionate people we are and what a beautiful land we live in.  This rally, like no other, will continue being a gateway for this connection. So let us all continue to believe in it and to support it."

Jayant on his part said: "We are so humbled and grateful to be part of this special event. We wish all the other surviving drivers and all the organizers, a safe and exciting second half."

To the spectators, please come out in large numbers to experience  this special rally; kindly do it in safe and designated spectator areas."

Vivo Energy are also the official fuel partners of the 9th edition of the East African Safari Classic Rally.