GREENHORN BEATS ODDS: Abdullahi happy with his debut show in Kisumu rally

Nairobi-based driver Osman Abdullahi made his rallying debut in Kisumu at the weekend and said he is happy with his performance.

He finished13th overall, contrary to all expectations mostly associated with greenhorns. 

Abdullahi was awarded with the Most Meritorious Award after he powered back his ex Paras Pandya Subaru N10 in eighth position in Group N, ahead of several established Kenya National Rally Championship drivers. Another newcomer Saima Khan was among the three lady navigators, who finished the grueling round organised by Equator Motor Club, as she guided Kisumu-based Jitendra Dhokia to 23rd overall position.

Joe Kariuki of Candy and Candy Racing is also new on the KNRC front, but failed to master the lakeside conditions. Abdullahi, who is tackling the full season of KNRC, however, admitted he had a long way to go and still got much to learn before mastering the ropes with the group N car.

Navigated by Evans Mwenda, Abdullahi said his first rally had surpassed all expectations.

“I never imagined that I would make it back in such a credible position. I started off last on the road and I am glad I was able to drive competitively. I hope to take it easy in the remaining rounds,” said Osman.

“We were looking forward to complete the two stages as per the initial itinerary, but the weather did not favour us. We got a puncture in the first loop and lost several minutes.”