Future of Motorsport in Kenya: Drivers Rev Up Ahead of Jim Heather Hayes Rally

In the heart of Machakos County, Lisa Farm played host to a unique motorsport event on November 24, 2024, marking a pivotal moment in Kenya’s motorsport journey. Organized by members of the soon-to-be-registered Motorsports Association of Kenya (MAK), the “fun day out” was more than just a practice session—it was a celebration of community, skill-building, and a glimpse into what could be the future of motorsport in Kenya.

With the Jim Heather Hayes Rally set for December 13-15 in Nanyuki, over 20 drivers gathered to test their mettle on a variety of courses. These ranged from a 4-kilometer circuit designed for the curbs to 12- and 25-kilometer loops for rally drivers. The event was inclusive, welcoming participants across different motorsport disciplines, allowing them to sharpen their skills and make critical adjustments ahead of the upcoming rally.

A New Approach to Motorsport

Unlike traditional rallies, which are heavily competitive, this event emphasized camaraderie and skill-building. Drivers were free to run as many laps as they wished, enabling them to fine-tune their cars and adapt to different driving styles. This flexibility also helped drivers who typically compete in autocross—short, high-speed races on tight circuits—transition to rally-style navigation, which demands endurance and precise pace note reading over longer distances.

This shift in focus from pure competition to skill enhancement and community-building is a critical part of what makes events like this special. It reflects a growing trend in motorsport globally, where grassroots events serve as incubators for new talent and ideas. In Kenya, this could represent a pivotal shift towards a more inclusive and developmental motorsport culture.

A Community Effort

Event organizers Mindo Gatimu and Sushil Gohil expressed their excitement at the event’s success and hinted at bigger plans for the future. “The response has been incredible, far exceeding our expectations,” said Gohil. “We’re optimistic about including this event in next year’s motorsport calendar once the federation is fully registered.”

Also Read: Quick Tips on How to Build Motorsport Visibility in Kenya

This optimism underscores a broader vision for motorsport in Kenya: one that is community-driven, inclusive, and geared towards growth. By creating spaces where drivers can gather, share knowledge, and hone their skills, MAK are laying the groundwork for a more robust motorsport ecosystem.

Building Skills Beyond Competition

One of the unique aspects of the Lisa Farm event was its emphasis on learning. Drivers had the chance to practice both with and without navigators, honing their ability to interpret pace notes and adapt to changing terrain. This kind of hands-on experience is invaluable, particularly for drivers looking to transition from autocross to rallying.

The event also featured different terrains and course lengths, giving drivers a taste of the variety they can expect in competitive rallies. This adaptability is a crucial skill in rallying, where conditions can change rapidly, and drivers must rely heavily on their navigators and pace notes to succeed.

A Vision for the Future

As Kenya’s motorsport scene evolves, events like this raise important questions about its future. Is this grassroots, community-focused approach the future of motorsport in Kenya? How can the sport grow inclusively while maintaining competitive rigor?

The success of the Lisa Farm event suggests that there is a strong appetite for motorsport in Kenya, not just as a spectator sport but as a participatory one. By focusing on skill development and community engagement, MK and MAK are creating a more accessible pathway into the sport, which could attract a new generation of drivers.

Upcoming events

Looking ahead, the upcoming Jim Heather Hayes Rally in Nanyuki will be a major test for the drivers who participated in the Lisa Farm event. It will also be a chance to see how the lessons learned, and skills honed during the fun day translate into competitive success.

Also Read: Impact Investing in Motorsport: Opportunities and Lessons to Be Learned

Beyond individual performance, however, the broader impact of these grassroots events will be measured by their ability to inspire and attract new talent. If MAK’s vision of a more inclusive, community-driven motorsport scene takes root, Kenya could become a regional hub for motorsport development.

Conclusion

As the dust settles and the drivers gear up for the Jim Heather Hayes Rally, one thing is clear: the future of motorsport in Kenya looks promising, and it will be built on a foundation of community, talent, and passion.

The question now is: How do we want to see motorsport grow in Kenya? What steps are needed to turn this vision into reality? For fans, drivers, and organizers alike, the journey has only just begun.

This article was written by Timothy Kinoti and Suleiman Munyua.

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