DIANA MUTAKAFIMBO, Lusaka
DEFENDING champion Muna Singh junior will today challenge his father when the Madmax-sponsored first leg national rally championship revs off in Lusaka.
It will not be easy for Muna Jr. because his father boasts of two African titles.
Muna Jr. is, however, optimistic of retaining the title.
“This is just the beginning of the season but I will ensure I compete in all the seven legs and retain the title,” he said.
Today’s event has attracted more than 20 drivers although prominent drivers in Jassy Singh, Mohammed Essa and Farook Ticklay will not take part due to challenges with their cars.
Others not in the race are Miles Monge and Geoffrey Chulu.
The rally which will cover a total distance of 124.94 kilometres will rev off with a super special stage Kabwe roundabout and Makishi traffic lights on the Great East Road.
The main stages will be at Chisamba’s Graham Rae Farms tomorrow.
“We expect over 26 entries and a lot of competition. We have a good number of new entrants who will be seeking to prove their ability to chase for honours. Every rally is unique in its own sense. Madmax always tries to bring that unique touch especially with the super special stage which is traditionally held at the Lusaka Motor Club,” said Zambia Motor Sport Association vice-president Sam Ching’ambu in Lusaka yesterday.
Last season was a two-horse race between the Singh brothers, Muna and Jassy, but the latter pulled out giving his younger brother an edge in the final leg.
Madmax, who are the main sponsors, have pumped K85,000 towards the event that has several co-sponsors.
The co-sponsors are Toyota Zambia, Automotive Equipment, L&J Fire Services, CC Systems, Pembe Milling, Mums Care Clinic and Kelvin Exhaust among others.