Lwakataka’s Hopes Hang by a Thread as Kalule Keeps SMC the Flag Flying

It has been a day filled with action, dust, and drama in the 6th round of the National Rally Championship  the CMC Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally 2025. From the first flag-off, it was clear that the rally gods had come hungry for stories, and boy, did they serve!

The day began on a promising note for Southern Motor Club’s (SMC) seasoned driver Ponsiano Lwakataka, who was right in the mix with Ronald Sebuguzi for top honors. Lwakataka stormed through the opening stage with intent, finishing 4th overall, and fans could smell a podium fight brewing. But just as the momentum built up, disaster struck. In the second stage, his Subaru N12 veered off the road and suffered severe damage  a heartbreak moment that left his championship hopes hanging by the thinnest of threads.

In true Lwakataka spirit, however, quitting is not part of the vocabulary. The veteran has since managed to fix his car and has vowed to return stronger tomorrow, hoping that Sebuguzi, his main rival, might falter and give him a lifeline in the title chase.

But while Lwakataka’s rally took an unfortunate twist, SMC’s flag continues to fly high through Peter Kalule and David Mwesigwa, who are putting up a spirited fight. The duo currently sit 4th overall, just behind Sebuguzi and ahead of Aine Sodo, who holds 5th position after a consistent display.

Further down the leaderboard, Faizal Kayira, co-driven by Prosperous Namara in a Subaru GC8, occupies 15th overall after a steady day behind the wheel.

In the 2WD class, SMC’s Julious “Mukalo” Semambo and Jaffer Lukenge are proving once again why they are among the most entertaining crews in the division. The pair currently lie 2nd, right behind the in-form Mansoor Lubega, who dominated most of the day. However, Semambo snatched a sweet stage win in the second loop of the Super Special Stage a clear statement that he’s not backing down without a fight.

As Day 1 comes to an end, the battle lines have been drawn. The rivalry between Mansoor Lubega and Julious Semambo in 2WD promises fireworks tomorrow, while fans wait to see if Lwakataka’s overnight repairs will yield a heroic comeback.