Gulu City,
By Joseph Kiggundu
The thunder of engines echoed across Gulu City as the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally sped off on Independence Day, marking the sixth round of the National Rally Championship (NRC) and a powerful celebration of the life and legacy of the late motorsport enthusiast Rajiv Ruparelia.
The three-day rally, held from October 9 to 11, covers 260.88 kilometers of tough northern terrain and combines fierce racing action with an emotional tribute to Rajiv, who passed away tragically in a car crash on May 3, 2025, at just 34 years old.
Organized by the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) in partnership with the Central Motor Club (CMC), the event officially flagged off at Kaunda Grounds, led by Gulu City Mayor and witnessed by rally fans, sponsors, and dignitaries. The festive atmosphere drew massive Independence Day crowds, many of whom lined up early to catch a glimpse of Uganda’s top drivers in action.
High-Octane Competition and Early Drama
The event drew 27 competitive crews, with NRC championship frontrunners Ronald Sebuguzi (241 points) and Ponsiano Lwakataka (235 points) headlining the entry list. Both drivers were chasing vital points in a season now reaching its final stretch.
Day One saw drivers tackle demanding stages such as Noblakes (15.01 km) and Wobbly (27.42 km) before fans were treated to a thrilling Super Special Stage at Pece War Memorial Stadium, where rally cars raced side by side in front of cheering spectators.
But the day was not without heartbreak. Fan-favorite Ponsiano Lwakataka was forced out early after rolling his car in the second competitive section. After Competitive Stage Two (CS2), Hassan Alwi Jr. led the pack with a time of 21:02.5, followed closely by Duncan “Kikankane” Mubiru (21:04.6) and Sebuguzi (21:15.7).
Day Two, set for Saturday, October 11, will feature the much-anticipated Rajiv Ruparelia Power Stage (18.05 km) — offering bonus championship points and the potential to shake up the overall NRC standings.
Rally Boosts Gulu’s Tourism and Business
Coinciding with the Gulu City Oktoberfest, the rally has transformed the northern hub into a motorsport and tourism hotspot. Hotels, eateries, and street vendors reported brisk business as fans poured in from across Uganda and neighboring South Sudan.
Pece Stadium, the venue for the Super Special Stage, was packed to capacity, with music performances and food stalls adding to the carnival-like atmosphere that spilled into Gulu’s nightlife.
“This event has put Gulu back on the map,” said Mayor Alfred Okwonga. “It’s not only a sporting spectacle but also a boost for local tourism, business, and youth engagement.”
Honoring Rajiv’s Passion and Philanthropy
Beyond the speed and spectacle, the rally carries deep emotional significance. It honors Rajiv Ruparelia, remembered not only as a motorsport driver but also as a philanthropist and visionary entrepreneur dedicated to empowering youth and communities.
Event organizers have integrated tree planting and borehole projects into the memorial rally, echoing Rajiv’s lifelong commitment to environmental conservation and social development.
“Rajiv was more than a racer; he was a mentor and community builder,” said Gideon Kirumira, a close friend, during the rally’s launch. “He believed in giving back — that spirit drives this memorial.”
Rajiv’s father, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, who attended the event, described the memorial rally as both a tribute and a continuation of his son’s dream. “Rajiv’s legacy will live through this event — inspiring youth, promoting motorsport, and supporting communities,” he said.
Top Drivers, Tight Margins
The rally features top NRC competitors, including Nasser Mutebi, Oscar Ntambi, Musa Ssegaabwe, Mathias Kiyegga, Duncan Mubiru, Michael Mukula, Julius Semambo, Jaffer Lukenge, Mansoor Lubega, and Bukenya Roald.
Among the event’s highlights are the Super Special Stage Rajiv Ruparelia (1.96 km) — run twice for added fan engagement — and the KCB Bank Stage, expected to be decisive in determining the event’s overall winner.
The KCB Bank Uganda team has been praised for its continued sponsorship of local motorsport, with drivers and fans acknowledging that such partnerships are vital for the sport’s growth and safety improvements.
Legacy Beyond the Track
As dust trails fade and engines fall silent, the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally stands as more than just a sporting contest — it’s a testament to how passion can unite communities, promote regional tourism, and inspire social change.
For Gulu City, the rally has brought new energy, visibility, and opportunity. For Uganda’s motorsport fraternity, it has reignited the competitive spirit of a season defined by emotion and endurance.
And for those who knew Rajiv, every lap around the Gulu track is a reminder of a man who lived fast, gave selflessly, and left behind a legacy that continues to drive others forward.