Kevin Bebeto took another step into his rally career by kick stating his journey in the National rally championship at the season opening event in Mbarara last weekend.
The 20-year-old having participated in a series of sprints and autocross events, was eventually promoted to the Clubman rally championship; a category for new entrants into the national rally championship.
In Mbarara, he partnered with Lawrence Mwambazi in a Subaru Impreza N10.
“My first NRC event was a bit difficult. This is because we encountered a few mechanical challenges on the road side. But luckily, we managed to go through it,” said Bebeto.
“But it is quiet interesting to have finished this rally. We went and did what we could and everyone is happy. I am happy with my performance,” he added.
Bebeto finished fourth in the CRC category despite having incurred penalties and mechanical issues. It is a results he says was perfect for the start.
“I didn’t anticipate anything because the experience seemed new. How we go through the recce is not the same like when we pass on race day. it is actually faster. And I could not tell how it would go.”
“But the objective was to finish the event and bring the car back in a good shape,” he added.
Bebeto comes from a rally background with two of his uncles, Kuku Ranjit and Kaka Junior having been rally drivers before.
The rookie confessed to have gained invaluable experience that he will rely on in the future events.
“I learnt a lot of things from Mbarara rally. I have done autocross before, but a rally event is so different. So many things change and I got an experience of it all.
“This rally has also taught me one important thing, to listen to the co-driver. It showed me that the co-driver is a very important aspect in the competition,” he explained.
While the rallying journey has begun, Bebeto has a wish list for his career.
“I see myself going far in rally. I dream of being a champion just like any driver. I started my career with autocross, now I am in CRC. God willing, I dream to go far than that,” said Bebeto.
Mwambazi who is a seasoned co-driver already sees potential in the young driver.
“Bebeto is a good driver. I believe everyone saw his pace in the stages. The pace is really promising for a young boy like him. He is also a good listener. He never goes off the notes,” said Mwambazi.
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