Bwera Bistro SMC Challenge Rally: The ultimate test of skill and endurance

The Bwera Bistro SMC Challenge Rally has cemented its reputation as one of the toughest events on the FMU calendar, notorious for its punishing gravel roads that separate the best from the rest.

The grueling, technical stages demand unwavering focus, raw skill, and sheer endurance—often leaving drivers relying on both their expertise and a bit of luck to survive.

Last season’s rally was a brutal testament to its difficulty. Of the 24 starters, only 11 made it to the finish line, with 13 succumbing to mechanical failures, crashes, or simply the relentless challenge of the terrain. Nasser Mutebi emerged victorious, conquering the treacherous conditions with precision and grit. Yet even the sport’s biggest names—Ronald Ssebuguzi, Jas Mangat, Ponsiano Lwakataka, Joshua Muwanguzi, and Musa Ssegaabwe—were among those forced into early retirements.

This weekend, the rally returns as the second round of the National Rally Championship (NRC) in Masaka and Ssembabule, with nearly all of last year’s fallen contenders back for redemption. Only Mangat will be absent, leaving the field wide open for a fierce battle.

Mutebi, the 2010 NRC champion and defending Masaka Rally winner, knows what awaits: grueling stages, relentless competition, and drivers in equally capable machines. But the reigning champion remains undaunted.

“Every rally is unpredictable until the final stage,” Mutebi said. “My goal is simple—finish strong, avoid trouble, and defend last year’s win to close the gap on Lwakataka in the championship.”

Currently trailing in the standings, Mutebi is determined to improve on his fourth-place finish (210 points) from last season, where he finished behind Dr. Moustapha Mukasa (265), Ssebuguzi (302), and champion Mangat (310). While financial constraints remain a hurdle, Mutebi and Team Nash are ready to fight for every point.

With Mangat out of contention this round, Mutebi sees a prime opportunity to gain ground. His past success on these roads makes him a favorite—but in a rally this punishing, nothing is guaranteed. One thing is certain: only the toughest will survive.