Published on April 30, 2024 by Agencies for Kenya Online News
Last Updated on 2 years by Agencies for Kenya Online News
Asad “Problem Child” Anwar father to the 2023 World Rally junior champion Hamza Anwar, defied all odds over the weekend to triumph in the sixth edition of the Betika Rallycross held at the Kasarani Super Spectator Stage in Nairobi.
The 2014 Autocross 4WD Champion topped the podium in the Open Class category, with a time of 06:21.82, to pip Rwandese driver Giancarlo Davite (06:33.30) and Rookie Ishmael Azeli (06:37.60) to claim the top spot in the category that also featured top drivers Shajad Khan, Pauline Sheghu and Frank Tundo.
In the 2WD category, Amaan Ganatra, second in the 2WD non-turbo Autocross championship, showcased exceptional driving prowess, clinching the top spot with a blistering time of 06:21.96. Ganatra’s flawless performance earned him crucial championship points, putting him in a strong position early in the season. Following closely behind was Daniel Mwangi (07:36.33), securing the second position. Sameer Nanji crashed out of the event, while car trouble took Stephen Mboci out of the competition entirely.
In the Team Events, the Juniors category saw 2022 African Rally Championship podium finisher Hamza ‘Problem Child’ Anwar (06:12.12) leading his Soli Gin team to victory with a stellar performance, securing the top spot. John Kadivane (06:20.91), the junior class driver on the Betika team, put up a commendable effort, finishing in second place, while Rajveer Thethy unfortunately had to withdraw from the event after getting beached on a boggy section of the track.
The Ladies Team Event showcased the skills of Maxine Wahome (06:32.51), who delivered a flawless performance to claim first place and valuable championship points. Mother-daughter duo of Caroline Gatimu (07:04.09) and Tinashe Gatimu (08:44.96) also demonstrated exceptional talent, finishing second and third, respectively, in a fiercely competitive field.
The Legends category witnessed an impressive display of skill, with two-time Dakar Rally finisher and last year’s RX Season Winner Ron Oakeley (06:46.17) taking the top spot after a commanding performance. Gideon Kimani (07:45.66) showcased remarkable determination to finish second, while Charan Thehy was unable to compete due to unforeseen circumstances.
The overall Team Event Finals showcased the collective effort and talent of the participating teams. Team SOLI GIN emerged as the champions, led by Maxine Wahome, Hamza Anwar, and Ron Oakeley, who delivered outstanding performances in their respective categories.
“We witnessed some incredible displays of skill and determination throughout the event,” said organiser Carl ‘Flash’ Tundo. “Congratulations to all the winners and participants for their outstanding performances. We look forward to more thrilling races in the upcoming events of the season.”
“What an electrifying event it has been! I am thrilled to celebrate the culmination of this extraordinary rally spectacle. The energy pulsating though this venue for the last two days is a testament to why we support motorsport. Congratulations to each participant who took to the track, pushing the limits of speed and skill. Your determination made this event nothing short of spectacular. Carl ‘Flash’ Tundo, thanks to you and your team for working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring this event to life. Let’s keep the momentum going and see you on the next one!” Said Betika Managing Director Mutua Mutava.
The event, a brainchild of the legendary Carl ‘Flash’ Tundo attracted top drivers who battled it out in extremely muddy conditions for supremacy on the track, with drivers pushing their limits to claim victory in their respective categories.
