Ten drivers miss scrutineering as NRC Fort Portal Rally kicks off

A total of ten drivers failed to present their vehicles for scrutineering ahead of the highly anticipated fifth round of the 2025 National Rally Championship (NRC), officially known as the UMC Fort Portal City Tourism Rally.

The scrutineering exercise was conducted on August 22 at Safari Park in Kyenjojo District.

Out of the 34 vehicles initially registered for the event, only 25 were cleared for the start list after Oscar Ntambi, Hassan Alwi, Umar Dauda, Joshua Muwanguzi, Aine Sodo Kaguta, Dr. Henry Maseruka, Amiri Kaweesa, Dennis Bahizi, and Salim Waiswa Gashemba failed to appear for the mandatory checks. Their absence has somewhat diminished the expected energy and atmosphere surrounding the rally’s opening day.

Renowned for its long and technically demanding stages, the UMC Fort Portal City Tourism Rally is a true test of skill, stamina, and tactical endurance. The event will navigate through the districts of Kyenjojo, Kabarole, and Fort Portal, covering a total distance of 280 kilometers of which 125 kilometers are competitive stages and 155 kilometers are liaison sections.

Among the rally’s most formidable sections are the Dr. Maseruka Stage (17.33 km) and the Red SUN Stage (15.36 km), both of which will be run twice during the first day’s itinerary in Kyenjojo District. The competition will conclude with the much-anticipated Super Special Stage on the final day.

As the championship standings currently stand, Ronald Ssebuguzi leads the title race with 187 points, followed closely by Ponsiano Lwakataka on 175 points, with Musa Ssegaabwe in third position at 167 points.

Despite the reduced number of competitors, the rally promises intense competition and thrilling motorsport action as Uganda’s finest drivers take on some of the nation’s most challenging rally terrain.