Why Cypriot Kireev is matching dollar for dollar contribution at Classic Rally

Evgeny Kireev of Cyprus a top his Porsche 911 at the ongoing 2023 East African Safari Classic Rally. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Evgeny Kireev from Cyprus and his navigator Per Gunnar Anderson are making their debut in the 2023 East African Safari Classic Rally (EASCR) whose Day 8 will zoom from Amboseli to Voi on Sunday.

The duo has survived punctures, inclement weather, tough terrains in the ongoing rally to keep their podium hope alive.

Even if they don't make it to top three, they say they will be much happy to complete the taxing contest.

By the start of Day 7 on Saturday morning in Amboseli, they were ranking 33rd out of the 63 contestants after provisionally clocking 13:26:53.4 in their Porsche 911, the only machine with a transparent bonnet in the competition.

Apart from making waves on the track, Kireev is also in the realm of philanthropy.

The Cypriot is already proving he has a heart as courageous as his driving skills after raising a commendable ten thousand dollars (Sh1.5 million) for Kenyan children's charities.

He now pledges to match further donations, amplifying his support for the local communities.

With his eyes set on the road and his heart on the welfare of Kenyan children, Kireev's initial contributions have made a significant difference at Kids League Kenya and Thomas Barnardo House.

Kids League Kenya is an organisation committed to providing educational opportunities to Kenyan children, enabling them to lead informed and productive lives, while Thomas Barnardo House is a Kenyan Children’s Home which act as a haven for orphans, offering them love, security, and the chance to achieve their dreams through proper care and education.

As the rally progresses, Kireev's goal now is to increase his philanthropic footprint. He is determined to drive as much aid as possible to these organizations by the end of the rally.

In a generous move, he has announced that for anyone who is inspired by his actions and wishes to contribute to these charities, he will personally match the donations, dollar for dollar, effectively doubling the support for these vital causes.

The EASCR is celebrating his noble initiative and is calling upon spectators, fellow drivers, and the global community to show Kireev love by joining in this charitable endeavour.

"This matching challenge not only magnifies the impact of each donation but also serves as a call to action for all who are moved by the spirit of giving," the federation stated.

The ongoing Classic Rally is a testament to the enduring spirit and challenge of rally driving.

The global showpiece encourages drivers to embrace the values of the competition and community support.

The federation encourages its participants to engage deeply with the local cultures and contribute to their growth.