Huye Rally honors late Jean Claude Gakwaya.
Ugandan and Rwandan drivers showcase skills.
Night stage adds excitement and challenge.
Racing spirit unites East African motorsport.
Honoring Legends, Igniting Passions
As the engines roar to life and the smell of burnt rubber fills the air, Rwandan and Ugandan rally drivers are poised for the adrenaline-fueled spectacle of the 2024 Huye Rally. Scheduled for June 14-16 in Huye and Gisagara Districts of the Southern Province, this event isn’t just about speed; it’s a tribute to the late Jean Claude Gakwaya, a revered icon of Rwandan motorsport. Gakwaya’s legacy looms large over the rally scene, his memory fueling the passion of drivers as they prepare to push the limits of their skill and endurance.
From Tragedy to Triumph
Jean Claude Gakwaya, hailed as one of Rwanda’s greatest rally drivers, met a tragic end in a motor accident in 1986. Yet, his spirit lives on through the Huye Rally, organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club in his honor. This year’s race promises to be a celebration of his legacy, a testament to the resilience and determination of East African rally drivers.
The Road Ahead: A Test of Skill and Grit
As the second event on the 2024 Rwanda National Rally Championship calendar, the Huye Rally marks a crucial juncture in the season. Giancarlo Davite leads the championship standings with 35 points, his mastery of the Mitsubishi Evo10 setting the standard for his competitors. Davite’s prowess extends beyond national borders, as he stands as Rwanda’s sole representative at the African Championship (ARC), a testament to his skill and dedication.
An International Showcase
The Huye Rally isn’t just a local affair; it’s a gathering of the finest talent from across East Africa. Ugandan drivers, including Joshua Muwanguzi and Hamza Lwanga in the Subaru Impreza N12, bring their own brand of speed and tenacity to the competition. The Mitsubishi Evo9 of Moustapha Mukasa and Lawrence Mwambazi, along with Gilberto Balondemu’s Toyota Runx, add to the diverse lineup of vehicles set to tackle the challenging terrain.
Homegrown Heroes
While international competitors bring their A-game, local talent is poised to defend their turf with pride. Queen Kalimpinya, Rwanda’s only female rally driver, is set to make her mark alongside seasoned veterans like Christian Kanangire, Kevin Mujiji, and the late Jean Claude Gakwaya, whose legacy lives on through his Subaru Impreza N10. With Mike Rutuku navigating the course in his Subaru Impreza GC8, Rwandan crews are ready to showcase their skill and determination on home soil.
A Fusion of Sport and Culture
Beyond the thrill of competition, the Huye Rally is a cultural phenomenon that captures the essence of East African heritage. The inclusion of a night stage adds an extra layer of excitement and challenge, testing the drivers’ mettle under the cover of darkness. It’s not just about speed; it’s about resilience, adaptability, and the unbreakable spirit of motorsport.
Looking Back, Racing Forward
As memories of past victories linger in the air, anticipation builds for the 2024 Huye Rally. With each rev of the engine, each twist of the road, drivers and spectators alike are reminded of the enduring legacy of Jean Claude Gakwaya and the indomitable spirit of motorsport in East Africa.
Also expect
Intense competition between Rwandan and Ugandan rally drivers.
Tribute to Jean Claude Gakwaya, a Rwandan rally legend.
Diverse lineup of vehicles navigating challenging terrain.
Inclusion of a night stage for added excitement and challenge.
Cultural celebration intertwined with thrilling motorsport action.
