It's all systems go for Sunday’s Sikh Union Training Rally which will revolve around a designated 15km special track at the Stoni Athi Resort area.
The event will serve as a precursor to the season-closing Guru Nanak Rally, which is headed for Voi later in the month.
According to organisers, the event seeks to bring together like-minded thrill seekers in a controlled and safe environment that challenges participants to compete in specially designed cars against each other —and more importantly— against the clock.
The concept, according to organiser Gurvir Bhabra, is to create an affordable stepping stone into the world of motor rallying.
Bhabra explained this weekend's event will consist of a single stage that will be repeated four times.
Unlike other rally-sport events, the Training Rally format will not feature reconnaissance (recce) whilst no service will be permitted to keep the costs to a bare minimum.
“The essence is to make it affordable for the enthusiastic greenhorns. Pace notes by a recognized driver/co-driver will be made available during the signing-on session; digital with a YouTube link of the stage dash cam video," Bhabra said.
"In turn, it also provides an opportunity to mentor and train upcoming volunteers and organisers. Spectators will access the venue free of charge."
Asked about the dynamics of training rallies, Bhabra emphasized: “Every rally driver and co-driver started at some point with the intention of driving a car competitively against rivals while trying hard not to break it or post a dismally slow time!”
He went on: “Understanding the basics of rallying requires attention to detail, bucket loads of common sense, and dedication to the cause, hence the concept of training rallies.”
Bhabra, who is also the WRC Safari Rally clerk of the course, added that competitors for the forthcoming Training Rally will have to meet certain mandatory safety requirements and obligations.
These will call for both members of the crew to be holders of valid Driver’s Licenses, Competition Licenses as issued by KMSF, minimum safety clothing regulations and indeed a ‘rally’ car which must meet the minimum safety requirements as regulated.
“Further guidance on these four-pointers or indeed any further information can be requested from KMSF and/or the Organiser well in advance of a Training Rally,” quipped Bhabra.
