• "We plan on approaching this rally with a clear mind," he affirmed. "We're looking for a good finish and just having a good time."
• Nikhil’s has a custom built rally car that has no foot pedals. Instead the pedals for acceleration and breaking are operated by hand.
Image: HANDOUT
Kenya’s first paraplegic rally driver, Nikhil Sachania is gunning for glory in the upcoming WRC Safari rally slated for March 28-31.
Nikhil’s life changed in September 2011 after he was involved in an accident in the Athi River, where he was testing his new quad bike, alongside his comrades Shazar Anwar and Zane Young.
The impact from the crush shattered his spine. This, however, did not deter him from pursuing his motorsports passion as he returned behind the wheel in 2014, three years after his accident.
Nikhil's determination to race however remained unshaken. "I have always loved and been into motorsports," he stated.
Reflecting on his life-long fascination with the sport he added, "During my rehabilitation (after the accident), there were two or three people that were driving in our team, so it never really slipped my mind. As soon as I had enough strength, I jumped into the first car I could get."
Nikhil has a custom-built rally car that has no foot pedals. Instead, the pedals for acceleration and braking are operated by hand.
As the countdown to the Safari continued, Nikhil and his navigator Deep Patel conveyed confidence in their approach, drawing on past experiences to guide their strategy.
"We plan on approaching this rally with a clear mind," he affirmed. "We're looking for a good finish and just having a good time."
The team further got a much-needed boost after KCB renewed its partnership for a third consecutive season.
He expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from KCB, highlighting their pivotal role in enabling their participation in the rally for the third consecutive year.
“It was fantastic news when we heard that KCB wanted to partner with us again. This is the third year running we will be running under them,” he said.
Reflecting on the significance of the partnership, Nikhil acknowledged the financial backing provided by KCB. "Without them, I don't think we would have been able to take part in this current rally," he admitted.
The 35-year-old noted that preparations are in full swing for him and his team as the rally draws near.
"We've started preparations with the car. We will be stripping it down and rebuilding it over the coming week,” he said.
Looking ahead to the rally itself, Nikhil expressed anticipation for the challenging stages and the potential impact of weather conditions.
He added that he expected rain would add an extra layer of excitement for fans and drivers alike.
“I am looking forward to the stages. There might be a slight chance of rain but that will make it more interesting for the fans and drivers,” he stated.
On his part, Patel exuded confidence in Nikhil also commending him on his concentration during races.
“Driving at this stage requires concentration. Hats off to him because his concentration when driving is on another level,” he stated further adding, “We have been friends for a very long time. When we are in the car we are in sync.”
For Nikhil, the allure of motorsport transcends physical limitations. It is a realm where passion knows no bounds and where the thrill of the race eclipses all obstacles.
With each turn of the wheel, he defies stereotypes and challenges perceptions, proving that disability is not a deterrent but a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
As Nikhil continues to carve his path in the world of motorsport, his journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for individuals facing similar challenges.