This archive report was first published on 9 July 2021.
Kenya's Jasmeet Chana Wins National Category Title at WRC Safari Rally ¶
Naivasha, Kenya - July 9, 2021
Kenyan driver Jasmeet Singh Chana has made history by winning the National Category title at the WRC Safari Rally in Naivasha. The event, which took place from June 24 to 27, 2021, saw Chana finish fourth overall, a remarkable achievement for a local driver.
Chana, who was sponsored by KCB Bank, expressed his gratitude to the bank for their timely support, which he believes played a significant role in his success. He also acknowledged the challenging nature of the Safari roads, but credited his team's strategy and local knowledge for their performance.
"Winning the National Class in a Safari is a dream come true on my very first WRC event as a driver," Chana said. "I have been associated with previous WRC Safari events as a service crew for Toyota Team Europe (TTE). I have also done a number of ARC Safaris; but tackling the event in its present global status in my capacity as a driver is such a great feeling."
Chana's victory in the National Category was a highlight of the event, which also saw Sebastien Ogier and Takamoto Kasuta of Toyota Gazoo Racing take the top two spots overall. Ott Tanak of Hyundai completed the podium.
Youngster Jeremy Wahome, driving a Ford Fiesta ST, won the Rally 3 Class in 16th overall position. Wahome, who has competed in various open-wheel formulae, including the BRDC British Formula 3 Championship and F3 Asian Championship, was one of the three Kenyan youngsters who drove the Rally 3 Ford contraptions as part of the FIA Rally Star Program.
Chana's success has sparked excitement in the Kenyan motorsport community, with many hailing his achievement as a testament to his hard work and dedication. As he looks to build on this momentum, Chana is seeking sponsorship for the rest of the season, with the next KNRC event scheduled to take place in Eldoret.
