Sports tourism is becoming more and more popular in Kenya. Since the return of the WRC Safari Rally in 2021. Motorsports is experiencing a new generation of fans and spectators and Kenya Motor Sports Federation offers a vibrant and entertaining calendar all year round.
Under the 4×4 competitions Mt. Kenya Motorsports a well know motorsports company, especially in the Mt. Kenya Region offers 4×4 challenges. Founded by Edward N. Ndukui a Software developer, Rally driver, Xtreme Kenya Racing Team, and Nanyuki Rally Team. The company offers 4×4 challenges which are filled with steep and soft hills, deep mud, flooded tracks, boulders and rocks, and entertainment.
The events offer a recipe of fun and excitement, catering to motorsports enthusiasts by having a very engaging year calendar. In 2022 it had four planned events Boy Is King Drive which was postponed, In July Kenya National 4×4 Championship Nanyuki, and in December the Nanyuki Storms 4×4 Challenge Women of Valour.
Most events offer over 12 competitive stages against the terrain with the following categories: Beginners for unmodified cars, the standard 4×4 vehicles. Intermediate is for slightly modified vehicles with some experience, Experts for vehicles that are modified, and Quads Bikes; vehicles that people use along the farms or for reaction.
In partnership with Storms Resort & Campsite, the events offer lovely scenery and tranquility for a weekend getaway. The natural landscape brings the real test for all challenges. When you visit the Storms and see the natural obstacles you can already tell the level of skill of the driver and the power of the machine-driven.
The 4×4 lifestyle is becoming a nice way to relax and get away from daily hustles. The Mt. Kenya Motorsports event contributes to 4×4 challenges and they are filling gaps especially by having an all-women challenge (Women of Valour), preparations for the 2023 calendar are on the way. Ndukui also runs the Drive4Pads. The drive caters to sanitary health for women in the local communities.
By Wairimu Nyathira, Sports Journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya
