Alwi storms past Mubiru to seize control of SMC Masaka Rally

SMC Masaka Rally Day one results

Hassan Alwi 27:16.72

Jonas Kansiime 27:46.14

Ronald Sebuguzi 28:28.62

Duncan Mubiru 28:48.84

Moses Lumala 28:50.82

Hassan Alwi Jr strengthened his bid for this year’s National Rally Championship (NRC) title after maintaining the lead at the end of Day One of the SMC Masaka Rally, the third round of the championship, held on June 19 across the districts of Bukomansimbi, Ssembabule, Masaka, and Kalungu.

Driving a Ford Fiesta Proto with navigator Musa Nsubuga, Alwi delivered a composed and consistent performance throughout the opening day, posting an overall time of 27 minutes, 16.72 seconds to emerge as the provisional leader heading into the final day.

Jonas Kansiime follows closely in second with a total time of 27 minutes, 46.14 seconds. Defending NRC champion Ronald Sebuguzi sits third after recording 28 minutes, 28.62 seconds, while Duncan Mubiru, popularly known as "Kikankane," is fourth on 28 minutes, 48.84 seconds. Moses Lumala rounds off the top five with a time of 28 minutes, 50.82 seconds.

The opening day offered plenty of excitement. Mubiru made a strong start by winning the first two competitive stages, but Alwi stayed within striking distance and mounted a determined challenge in Stage Three, overtaking Mubiru to take command of the overall standings.

The decisive moment came during the Super Special Stage at Nabugabo Sand Beach, where Alwi extended his lead. Mubiru, who had appeared poised to dominate, slipped down the order and settled for fourth place at the close of competition.

The rally attracted 37 registered crews, though only 30 eventually took the start. The event concludes on June 20, with competitors tackling the remaining stages to determine the overall winner.

Beyond the rally itself, the NRC title race continues to intensify as drivers push for valuable points. After the opening two rounds, Alwi leads the championship standings with 118 points, underlining his strong start to the season. Umar Dauda is second with 82.5 points, followed by Duncan Mubiru in third on 79 points. Randeep Singh Birdi sits fourth with 77 points, while reigning national champion Yasin Nasser rounds out the top five with 73 points.