By Mwambazi Lawrence
Jinja, Uganda It’s just five days until the 2024 Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally kicks off, and if you miss it, you better have a good story for the grandkids. With over 37 crews ready to tear up the closed sugar cane plantation routes, this year’s event promises to be a barn-burner. But let’s be real if you skip it, you might as well start practicing your “I had to water my ficus” excuses now, because this is going to be epic.
The lineup is stacked with talent from Kenya and Uganda. The African Rally Champion, Karan Patel, is back to redeem himself after last year’s infamous no-show due to the wet conditions. (Apparently, even champions have their limits when it comes to getting their shoes muddy.) But if Patel thought he had dodged a rainy bullet, he missed out on the twist recce was wet, but the rally day was as dry as a popcorn fart. Whoops.
Reigning Africa rally champion Karan Patel did not start last year due to the wet conditions
The 2024 rally is 100% closed, meaning all routes are set within restricted areas, primarily winding through lush sugarcane plantations. This setting not only provides a stunning backdrop but also offers challenging terrains that will test even the most skilled drivers. It’s a rally where precision, power, and a touch of bravery are the keys to victory.
Innocent Bwamiki during last year’s free practice stage
But here’s where it gets interesting the start order. Unlike usual NRC rallies, the ARC-registered crews get the first crack at the track, setting the pace for everyone else.Following them are the NRC crews .If you’re thinking this sounds like a recipe for chaos, you’re absolutely right. But it’s a beautiful chaos, the kind that keeps you on the edge of your seat and your heart racing. And speaking of racing, The action kicks off on Friday with the free practice stage at Wairaka, followed by the qualifying stage and the shakedown, where all participating crews will showcase their skills Now, I know what you’re thinking: Friday’s going to be a slow build-up, right? Wrong. Friday is when the real action starts then rally proper will comence on Saturday with eight grueling stages that will challenge even the most seasoned drivers. The grand finale on Sunday includes three stages, culminating in the power stage, where extra points are at stake..
But let’s talk about the shakedown at Bujagali Falls. Imagine this: roaring engines in harmony with the serene flow of the Nile River. It’s like a Metallica concert, but with more dust and less headbanging. You can watch the cars launch from the starting line and fly through the finish while soaking in the breathtaking views. It’s the kind of experience that makes you wish you’d paid more attention in geography class because this is Uganda at its finest.
The breath taking view at the Bujagali
So, here’s the deal: if you’re anywhere near Jinja next weekend and you choose to miss the 2024 Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, you might as well turn in your “Cool Person” card. This is the event of the year, and there’s no telling what wild moments will unfold. Wet roads, dry roads, cars in sugar cane fields it’s all on the table.
See you at the starting line! Bring your earplugs and your sense of adventure you’re going to need both.
