Duncan “Kikankane” Mubiru has marked his return in style.
The veteran driver, who last competed at the SMC Masaka Rally in June, powered to victory on day one of the CMC Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally, stamping his authority on the dusty, punishing super special stage of Gulu City in Kaunda Grounds.
Kikankane, renowned for his fearless attack and never-say-die spirit, showed all his experience to outpace the field and set up a mouth-watering final day showdown.
Hot on his heels was Stefano Valeri, the Ethiopian star driving under a Ugandan license this season, who kept the pressure on with an impressive drive to finish second.
Championship leader Hassan Alwi was right in the mix as well, settling for third — a crucial result that keeps his maiden title ambitions firmly on track.
With the leaderboard tight and Gulu’s brutal terrain already taking its toll, Day One belonged to the returning Kikankane. But will he hold on?
The battle for the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial crown goes down to the wire tomorrow.
