VK Vodka Kick Rally driver Steve Perez completed the first day of the nine day, 4500km, EASCR without too many problems to end the leg in 12th place overall, despite managing to upset the local police force...

After the ceremonial start from the Sarova Whitesands Hotel in Mombasa on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Perez headed North and then West via Makindu and Emali to arrive at the halt in Nairobi this evening.

Driving the historic-specification Datsun 260Z, a steady run on SS1 saw him take it easy before a bent steering arm hampered his progress on SS2 and SS3 and then on SS4, an indiscretion with a Police ‘Stop’ sign saw him incur the wrath of the Kenyan authorities but he continued.

“We took it a little too easy perhaps in the opening stage, just to see what it was like and then our couple of minor offs weren’t ideal but at least we’ve got day one under our belts and are looking forward to the rest of the rally” said Perez.    

Making his co driving debut alongside Perez on the event is Mike Stuart, whose African experience is proving vital. Having driven on scores of British rallies including the RAC Rally during the 1980s, Mike has been on Safari twelve times for Mitsubishi as mechanic and chase car driver. He also made gravel notes for Richard Burns on the Safari in 1998 meaning he is fully familiar with Safari roads and conditions. 

Like Mike, Steve has lots of experience in British rallying but is an African novice so is relying on Mike for advice on tactics and pace. "The most important thing this year is to cross the finish line" said Mike.

Day two sees the crew leave Nairobi tomorrow and head out via Lake Baringo towards Nakuru before another overnight halt at the Naivasha Sopa Lodge.

For further details: www.eastafricansafarirally.com