Teen Rally Driver Tinashe Gears Up for Safari Rally After Successful Test Run

Teen rally sensation Tinashe Gatimu is set for the 2024 WRC Safari Rally after a successful test drive of her upgraded Subaru Impreza GC8 at Twisty Corners off-road track. The 18-year-old, navigated by her mother Caroline Gatimu, is part of KCB Bank’s four-car team in this year’s edition.

Following an engine swap, Tinashe fine-tuned the car’s performance ahead of the grueling March 20 flag-off. “We changed the engine, and so far, it’s handling beautifully,” she said, adding that final tuning is planned to maximize speed and agility.

Competing in her third Safari Rally, Tinashe described the experience as surreal and credited her parents and KCB sponsors for their unwavering support. She also urged more young women to join rallying, emphasizing the welcoming nature of the motorsport community.

Her journey began in 2022 with an auto race in Nakuru, and since then, rallying has become her passion. “Being in a rally car is calming; it’s just you and the car. For me, it’s very relaxing,” she noted.

With another test drive scheduled before the main event, Tinashe remains determined to make a strong impression in this year’s Safari Rally.