Samman Vohra, piloting his Skoda Fabia, claimed his second victory of the 2024 Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC) season with an impeccable performance in Nanyuki.
Vohra, the son of the late JS Vohra, a former Kenya Motor Sports Federation (KMSF) Chairman, dominated the Nanyuki Rally Group round from start to finish, winning all six stages.
The Nanyuki Rally, renowned for its challenging terrain and prestigious history, saw Vohra displaying exceptional skill and determination. He led the rally from the outset, maintaining a consistent pace and exhibiting masterful control of his Skoda Fabia.
This victory marks a significant comeback for Vohra, who triumphed in the season-opening event in Eldoret but faced a setback at the Safari Rally due to a mishap on the Kasarani Super Special Stage.
Defending champion Jasmeet Chana, participating in his first race with the Ford Fiesta R5, secured second place. Despite experiencing some teething issues with his new vehicle, Chana demonstrated resilience and adaptability.
“Nanyuki was good. We managed P2 despite some teething problems with our new Fiesta. In one of the stages our radiator was clogged up with grass, so the engine was running hot, but after that we were okay. We are getting used to the new car,” Chana remarked after the race.
Veteran rally driver Ian Duncan, a legend in Kenyan motorsport and winner of the 1994 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, rounded out the podium. Duncan, driving his iconic Datsun 280Z, also emerged victorious in the Classic Car category.
His consistent performance and vast experience shone through, allowing him to navigate the demanding course with ease.
The rally, however, was not without its dramatic moments. Aakif Virani, the 2021 Nanyuki Rally winner, faced a harrowing incident when his Skoda Fabia R5 caught fire during the second run of the Mlima Hema speed test.
Both Virani and his navigator escaped unharmed, but the incident led to the stoppage of SS4 – Mlima Hema 2.
As per KMSF National Competition Rules (NCRs) Article 44 and 44.1, a time of 21:57.9 was allocated to drivers Ian Duncan, Shakeel Khan, Joey Ghose, lady driver Lisa Christoffersen, and youngster Neel Gohil, who finished fifth overall.
Clerk of the Course Bimal Patel explained the decision: “Having considered that cars No. 7, 20, 25, 55, and 99 were shown a red flag following the fire incident, and having considered the times and split times set before the stopping of the stage, a time of 21:57.9 was allocated to the rest of the drivers.”
The Nanyuki Rally, one of the longest-running events in the KNRC series, joined the elite ranks in 1998. It holds a special place in the annals of Kenyan motorsport, with notable winners including the late Jonathan Toroitich, son of former President Moi.
Following the weekend’s results, Vohra reclaimed the lead in the KNRC standings, now sitting at 66 points. Jasmeet Chana follows in second place with 53 points, while Carl Tundo, absent from the Nanyuki leg, trails behind.
Vohra’s victory in Nanyuki not only underscores his driving prowess but also his resilience and commitment to the sport. As the KNRC season progresses, all eyes will be on Vohra to see if he can maintain his momentum and secure the championship title.
