Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally Officially Launched in Kampala

By Mwambazi Lawrence-

The 6th round of the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC), dubbed the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally, has today been officially launched at Somewhere Else Naguru, Kampala. The event, organized by the Central Motor Club (CMC), is scheduled to take place on the weekend of 10th–11th October in Gulu District.

CMC, Rujiv Ruparelia group, FMU, NCS, spomsors and driversb during the launch of the sixth roung “Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally” at Somewhere Else” Naguru. Photo by Gerald Kikulwe

This year’s edition holds special significance as it is dedicated to the late Rajiv Ruparelia, a budding rally driver who tragically lost his life in a car accident just months ago. The rally will be among the headline attractions of the Gulu City Carnival, a vibrant celebration that promises to bring together motorsport fans and revelers from across the country.

According to organizers, the rally will cover a total of 260.88 kilometers, of which 132.63 kilometers will be competitive, spread across eight stages, while 128.25 kilometers will be liaison.

With five rounds completed, the fight for the NRC crown remains wide open. Ronald Sebuguzi and Anthony Mugambwa currently lead the championship standings, though only by a slim margin. Breathing down their necks are Ponsiano Lwakataka and Paul Musazi, who have secured an impressive four wins out of the five events so far this season. Meanwhile, Musa Ssegaabwe and Mathias Kiyega sit third on the leaderboard, keeping the pressure alive heading into NRC6.

The 2WD category is just as tense, with Julius Semambo and Jaffer Lukenge clinging onto the lead with a narrow 1.5-point advantage. Mansoor Lubega and Ronald Bukenya trail closely in second, while Amir and Kenneth Kavuma are also within striking distance, ensuring that the class remains wide open.

In the Clubman Rally Championship (CRC), Walter Kibande and Duncan Katumba have established a commanding position at the top. However, the ever-consistent Ahmed Katete and Morgan Serugga remain in hot pursuit, while the crew of Kevin Bebeto and Siraj Kyambade are lurking, ready to pounce on any slip-ups from the frontrunners.

Event COC Enoch Olinga explains the route during the launch of the event.

Speaking at the launch, Clerk of the Course Enoch Olinga assured fans and crews that safety remains a top priority:

“The routes are smooth, fast, and designed with safety in mind. We are working closely with local authorities to ensure both competitors and spectators enjoy a safe rally.”

With the memory of Rajiv Ruparelia adding emotional weight to this round, and the NRC title battle hanging in the balance, all eyes now turn to Gulu, when it once again takes center stage.