Introducing a New Ford Fiesta R2 to Kenyan Driver Tinashe Gatimu Kenyan motorsport rising star young driver is hoping to achieve a strong finish in her Safari Rally debut which is part of the World Rally Championship.
Tinashe Gatimu has officially revealed her new Ford Fiesta R2 while preparing for the much, anticipated Safari Rally Kenya, which is one of the World Rally Championship events scheduled to be held in Naivasha from March 12-15.
Live unveiling of the car was held at a Nairobi hotel on Thursday and brought together local motorsport players sponsors rally fans and other enthusiasts who wanted to support the kenyan driver in her next revolutionary step towards her bright future career.
The 21 year old will drive significantly more powerful and reliable rally car that to be used for the first time physically represents a great step forward in her competitive journey.
Another interesting aspect of Gatimus rally campaign is her navigator, mother Caroline Gatimu. The two create a very rare mother, daughter rally team, uniting experience and familial trust as they get ready to face one of the most challenging rallies in the world of motorsport.
The team receives support from KCB Bank Kenya and will be one of the numerous Kenyan drivers competing against top international rally stars during this spectacular event.
The Safari Rally is famous for its challenging terrains, drastic weather changes, and long tough courses that test the endurance of the competitors, it is still ranked among the toughest races worldwide in the rally calendar.
During her speech at the launch, Gatimu recognized the difficulties ahead and said that her main goal is still to complete the rally. “This year the goal is the same as in the previous yearsfirst of all, to finish. Rallying can be hard, and being on the podium is only a bonus”, she said.
Furthermore, she mentioned that having her mother as her partner makes their teamwork even better in the rally car. “In the rally car we trust each other, especially since I have known her my whole life. Besides, she has also been a rally driver for quite some time, ” Gatimu said.
Navigator Caroline Gatimu said that it was a very special and exciting moment. She also believed in the talent of her daughter as a driver and emphasized that during rally competitions one must have great endurance and be well coordinated.
In addition to the WRC Safari Rally, the Gatimu team is also set to compete in the African Rally Championship this year as they seek to get more competitive experience and to increase their visibility in the continental motorsport scene.