KAMPALA – After receiving specialised training at the Rally Sports Academy from Sun Carousel, in Johannesburg, South Africa under the stewardship of Africa’s No.1 trainer Leone Botha, Rajiv Ruparelia on Saturday night unveiled his monster machine and his team as part of his final preps for his much-expected debut.
At Speke Hotel, Rajiv unveiled his VW Polo Proto, imported from Poland and his team to be managed by his uncle, Mr. Dipu Rupareria, himself a veteran rally driver.
Other team members include Mike Mwangi, the Chief Mechanic and Ronnie Walia, the Navigator
“We are ready to hit the track,” Rajiv told PML Daily after the car was unveiled at the event hosted by Leone Ssenyange, with his father tycoon Sudhir Rupareria beaming with pride.
Rajiv, under his RR “Double Trouble” team, is expected to debut at the upcoming Pearl of Africa rally under the Federation of Motor Sport in Uganda(FMU).
“I wanted to rally back in 2008, but now is the moment,” Rajiv said.
“My trainer Leone Botha will be coming down as soon the cars are ready and we will be debuting from home with the Pearl of Africa,” he said.
Chief Mechanic, Mike Mwangi said:
“This Is the only VW Polo Proto monster really made from Poland that we have in the country and the biggest advantage is that it’s a lighter car about two times less compared to the conventional ones”.
Mr Mwangi, who has wealth of experience in managing mechanics for rally teams has offered to mentor Ugandan mechanics to improve the performance of preparation for rallies for improved safety of the drivers and the fans.
The event also attracted other notable senior rally drivers such as Dan Kikankane among others who applauded Rajiv for his interest and joining the game.
Rajiv has been active in other sport such as Quad, Motorcross bikes, Buggies and Tarmac rallying and his entry into rally is considered a game changer.
