Five MCC Members and eleven other fellow blades set themselves a formidable challenge to raise money for Running for Rangers. John Rogers recounts their adventure.
John Rogers fixing the car watched by curious Samburu.
Running for
In June this year, eight foolhardy teams, which included MCC Members John Rogers, Colm D’olier, Ross Field, Casimir Gross and Kendall Evans, set off on a 5-day ‘rally’ through the deserts of North Kenya. The rules were simple, no Toyotas or 4WDs, the cost of the car could not exceed $1,000 and with only $500 more allowed for repairs and spares, this was not going to be easy! The choice of car selection varied a great deal with Peugeots quickly becoming the obvious favourite, totalling four in number, followed by two Datsuns, one Mitsubishi Lancer and a Nissan Sunny. There were two no 4WD support vehicles carrying mechanics, a doctor with medical kit and extra fuel and water. Every car had to carry 60 litres of fuel and 40 litres of water and affix tow points to the front and rear. Each car was responsible for carrying its own food, drink, bedding (camp beds and mosquito nets), clothing and spare parts. Ironically the smallest car in the fleet, a Peugeot 205, accommodated the two largest men in the team - two ex- Kenyan rugby players - who became adept at driving with their knees around their ears and their camping equipment digging into their backs.
There had been much pre-departure debate as to whether front or rear wheel drive would be best in the sand. It wouldn’t be long before we found out. Each day started with a driver’s briefing. Aside from the constant threat of looming breakdowns or total End of day recap under a thorn tree vehicle disintegration, the route passed through some inhospitable areas, known for violent tribal conflict. Safety and communication at all times was key - all vehicles were carrying either satellite phones or GPS trackers, to ensure constant communication and, in the more dangerous areas, the vehicles travelled in tight convoy. There was a simple points system to determine placement each day – completing the course within the set time allowances for each attracted 50 points, however punctures, general repairs and getting stuck resulted in hefty deductions! Assisting those stuck/broken down, either with manpower or with parts, John Rogers & Colm D’Olier ready gained the teams credit points; this was for Black Tie End-of-Rally-Dinner. 14
Muthaiga Country Club December 2021 - February 2022
www.mcc.co.ke
