Block in Kenya for EA Classic Rally as tourists flock

American professional rally driver and internet phenomenon Ken Block, in a Tuthill Porsche, will be part of the nine-day East Africa Safari Classic Rally (EASCR) set for 10 to18 February. 

The master of high-speed slides arrived in the country alongside Italian co-driver Alex Gelsomino and are already testing their Porsche in Naivasha where the event will begin. 

Block announced his participation in the Kenyan event, set to traverse over 5000km from the rough terrains of Naivasha to the prestine sandy beaches of Watamu in Kilifi County, in April last year.

Block to add Hoonigan flair to this years Safari Classic

At the time, the Rally widely regarded as the world’s greatest classic Rally was scheduled for November 2021. It was, however, postponed for health reasons. 

On Sunday, the driver got a chance to feel the Kenyan terrain for the first time and, if his sentiments on social media are anything to go by, the drift master is impressed.

"First day of testing our Tuthill-Porsche built and prepared ‘84 Porsche 911 here in Kenya went very well! Fast roads, narrow tracks, rough stuff, wild animals, and jumps! Great way for Alex Gelsomino and I to start our preparation to get ready for the East African Safari Classic Rally that starts later this week," he wrote on twitter. 

Block joins a big list of visitors, competitors and fans alike, in the country for the nine-day event which has contributed to an increase in tourists bookings around Nakuru where the Rally will be flagged off. 

Set to cover 5,000 Kilometres across 11 counties and over 360 towns in Kenya, the rally has put a focus on attractions within these regions. Some of the counties that are set get a glimpse of the action include Nakuru, Laikipia, Kajido, Taita, and Kilifi among others.

The classic rekindles the spirit of the original Safari Rally, which puts Kenya and East Africa on the global motorsport map and earned an unassailable reputation as the world’s toughest rally.  

Tourism marketing agency, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO, Dr Betty Radier says that motorsport events like other key events are important because they enhance a destination’s attractiveness and competitiveness. 

“we are glad to be hosting the East Africa Safari Classic now because the event will trigger a boost in tourism and strengthen the destination’s image, among other benefits. The Kenya Tourism Board will be activating and leveraging the global coverage during the event to showcase Kenya’s preparedness and enhance top of mind awareness of the destination among travellers whose travel plans have been hampered by travel restriction as a result of covid-19 pandemic,” said Radier.