Josiah Kariuki and John Ngugi are confident as the WRC Safari Rally starts in Naivasha on Thursday.
The duo will commandeer the renowned ex-Don Smith FIA Africa Rally Championship-winning vehicle, sponsored by BangBet, for the second consecutive year.
Navigator Ngugi, with a rallying heritage as a second-generation driver, expressed confidence in their preparations, highlighting the incorporation of Smith’s seasoned mechanics into their team for this year’s Safari.
“Our meticulous preparations, including the incorporation of Smith’s expert mechanics, have us primed for the rally’s start at KICC on Thursday,” said Ngugi.
He emphasised the team’s thoroughness in ensuring their vehicle’s readiness.
Ngugi recounted their setback in the 2021 edition, attributing their non-participation to a minor oversight regarding their vehicle’s roll cage, a hiccup they’ve diligently rectified in subsequent competitions.
Venturing into their third Safari alongside Kariuki, Ngugi outlined their strategic approach, emphasising the significance of prudent driving to preserve the vehicle’s integrity across the arduous terrains.
Ngugi expressed gratitude to BangBet for enabling their participation for the second consecutive year, underscoring the financial demands of rallying.
The vehicle underwent pre-event scrutineering at the Wildlife Research & Training Institute (WRTI) in Naivasha under the meticulous supervision of technical delegate Musa Locho, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Ngugi, son of the late rally luminary John Ngugi Senior, embodies a legacy steeped in rallying prowess, poised to leave his mark on the storied Safari Rally, following in his father’s illustrious footsteps.
He exuded pride in fulfilling his childhood aspiration, fueled by an upbringing immersed in the captivating world of motor rallying, echoing sentiments shared by fellow scions of rallying dynasties participating in this year’s Safari.
