Maiden WRC Safari motivating Zameer to better KNRC performance

“Being a second-generation driver has its ups and downs. For one, you are always under pressure to go one better than your seniors and you always strive to cement a decent reputation in your career.”

These are the sentiments of outgoing three-time Kenya National Autocross Two Wheel Drive Non-Turbo Buggy Champion Zameer Verje, who says his career has been a steep learning curve.

Zameer savoured a maiden World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari finish on his third rally, since his debut in the season- opening KNRC KMSC Rally in Il-Bisil, when he steered his Subaru Impreza to fifth overall position.

He took first position in Division Three, beating the two Rally3 Fiestas of Jeremy Wahome and McRae Kimathi.

"We have had a few teething problems with the car which is normal when getting used to something new. We missed out on the Africa Rally Championship (ARC) Equator Rally which was a dry run for the WRC Safari, so missed on the opportunity to feel the route prior. It was definitely the toughest rally that I have done as a rally driver,” Zameer offered after the Safari.

The driver who comes from a family line of rally drivers says doing the Safari was a dream come true, adding that it has motivated him to go for better results in the KNRC this year.

“My expectations this year are a lot higher than last year after graduating from the Autocross series. Safari finish meant a lot to my racing career, and I feel I have the confidence to go faster and target decent results.

Kavisi promises better after WRC show

My predecessors in our family had lots of stories from the event. Prior to the event, I had seen several videos with a lot of adventures and iconic stages. It was an amazing experience to take on the legendary routes and rub shoulders with the creme de la creme of the sport that we only see on TV,” said Zameer

The driver says it was a critical balancing act between performance and survival and the demanding conditions of the Safari and the other two rallies before it have helped builds his character as a driver.