Davite’s ARC title quest face big threat

Rwandan driver Giancarlo and his navigator Sylvia Vindevogel will need to be at their best to avoid any disappointments that might hinder their quest to win this weekend’s Zambia International Rally which starts on Friday.Reigning ARC champion Mohammed Essa of Zambia and his compatriot Jassy Singh, Jas Mangat of Uganda, Davite of Rwanda are all aiming to score maximum points to better their chances of winning the African title.But their mission might be complicated by former African champion Zimbabwean Jimmie Whyte who has emerged out of a 14-month sabbatical to take part in the rally.The 54-year-old former African champion made an unexpected entry in the race and will be a force to reckon given his track record.Whyte in a Subaru N10 has heightened competition for Africa Rally Championship points in the three-day race.Davite, who grabbed 15 points in the Sasol Rally of South Africa, last month, will hope that his Mistubishi Evo 10 remains in good condition throughout the race because any slight mistake would cost him the title again.With South Africa’s Jan Habig, who is leading the ARC ranking with 25 points not competing in the third stage, it means that the 20-year-old Singh, who grabbed 18 points in the Sasol Rally last month is in a favourable position emerge the ARC leader.All competitors finished route reccing yesterday and are all set for today’s ceremonial start and spectator stage due in Lusaka Showgrounds.The crews will tackle 10 stages on private firm land in Chisamba outside Lusaka City on Saturday and the second leg on Sunday will have only six stages.

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Davite’s ARC title quest face big threat