Going for a treble

By Douglas Mazune ONE would be foolhardy to bet against Charlie Lubega sweeping the 2002 national championship.The new year has started on a high note for the music-man of Ange-noir. He has just scooped the USPA sportsman-of-the-year award, and, the “opposition” is already in disarray.With the big guns Charles Muhangi, Chipper Adams and Emma Katto unlikely to put up consistent challenges, the mantle falls on one man, Moses Lumala, to stop the Macarena train steaming to a third national rally championship.Lubega seeks to equal Karim Hirji’s record (1993, 1994, 1995).Only Sam Sali at four(1989, 1990,1991, 1992) has driven better.The 10-round 2002 season starts tomorrow with the Caltex rally, Can Lumala stop Lubega? “I will definitely drive much faster than last year, only that rally cars are not reliable. Anything can happen,” said the hungry and on-form Lumala.Winner in 1999, Lumala is getting the rhythm of his Toyota Celica ST 185 ‘Tiger 2’ and looks a good bet to reclaim the title.He has sights not only on Lubega, but big guns Katto and Muhangi who are set for comebacks this season.“Katto is good he may catch up with us (Lumala and Lubega) after only one rally, but Muhangi needs a full season—may be he can try in 2003, now he can only win a rally if our cars break down,” Lumala said.“Charlie is the man to beat. His car is good on smooth roads.” That says it all.Giovanni Storchi, Kaka Junior, Kuku Ranjit, Dipu Ruparelia, Wycliff Bukenya, Nadim Lalani and UPDF’s Ismail Lule are expected to impress this season.It is the longest season ever and the possibility of a surprise winner is very likely.Caltex rally draw:Charlie LubegaMoses LumalaKuku RanjitKaka JuniorGiovanni StorchiDipu RupareliaGodfrey KatendeIsmail LuleEmma KattoNadim LalaniArthur BlickDipu HayerJoseph MulemaJamil SenyonjoToplex Makanga2002 NRC series:Caltex rally January Mbarara February Royal Birthday March Easter Rally April Simba Telecom May Fraternity June Shell Helix July DFCU Rally August TOTAL Pearl September Independence October