Veteran co-driver Frank Gitau has moved in to call Alex Horsey’s pacenotes while 2WD navigator Zahir Shah will sit with Division Two prospect Izhar Mirza. Peter Horsey caused a stir with his new Mitsubishi EVO 10, the lastest on Kenyan soil.

A total of 42 drivers including three foreigners-Moses Matovu of Uganda, Iain Freeston of Great Britain and Jas mangat will take part in the season opeing round of Western Kenya Motor Club.

Clerk of the Cousre Ravi Taylor hinted of a smooth, rough, rocky and twisty conditions.

The Oilibya 2WD contender Charles Hinga said the rockery in the latter stages will definitely call for extra caution.

“The fifth and last stage around Singore is very rocky going down into the valley but all in we are not disadvantaged because it wasn’t muddy after yesterday’s downpour,” Hinga commented.

The rally is also incorporating new comers most of whom are coming through the San Valencia-sponsored KRDA Rally school.

Kioni Racing’s David Kioni and Mwangi Waithaka will make their debut in the 2WD class and so is Eldoret based Khalid Umar who is teaming up with his uncle Shakil Umar. Raymond Karoki also a member Kioni Racing is making his debut exhilarated with the KRDA Rally academy.