A total of 64 teams are set to participate in this year’s Rhino Charge, which will be held on Saturday in Baringo County.
The competition is an off-road event that’s characterised by tough terrain, ingenious route planning, whose proceeds go towards conservation of the country’s select water towers through the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust.
This year’s event has attracted former and new participants who include:
Car No. 25 – Charging Hippos: Led by Sam Jethwa, a paraplegic driver whose inspiring participation also extends to the East Africa Safari Classic Rally.
Car No. 19 – Bush Babes: The formidable all-female team that has participated in Rhino Charge for over 15 years, exemplifying determination and grit.
Car No. 46 – Geco Tribe Chargers: A passionate group known for their adventurous spirit and conservation ethos.
Speaking ahead of the race, Mateus Finato, driver of Geco Tribe’s Car No. 46, shared:
“Preparing for Rhino Charge is always intense. We’ve been fine-tuning the car, testing in terrain similar to what we expect in Baringo, and getting the whole team mentally and physically ready. It’s not just about speed; it’s about strategy, endurance, and teamwork. We’re excited and feeling confident. White Cap Lager backs us again is a real boost, it helps take some pressure off and lets us focus fully on the challenge ahead.”
Others will include five-time winners Car No. 5, led by Graham McKittrick, and past champions Car No. 4, led by Mark Glen.
Other top contenders include Car No. 43 (Peter Kinyua), Moto Moto (Rajesh Maini), Team AK44 (Adil Khawaja), BATUK, Team Huzi, and Zambarau Heels on the Wheel, among others.
Beyond the competition, the Rhino Charge is a major fundraising platform for environmental conservation.
In 2024, the event raised a record-breaking KES 375 million for Rhino Ark’s work, a milestone that organisers and participants are eager to exceed this year.
Meanwhile, Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its White Cap Lager brand, has renewed its sponsorship for the fifth consecutive year.
The brand is providing KES 3 million in support, covering financial and logistical assistance for the three teams mentioned above.
Wema Mugofwa, Brand Manager for White Cap Lager, noted:
“We’re proud to continue standing with Rhino Charge and Rhino Ark in this shared mission. White Cap has always celebrated the beauty of Kenya’s outdoors, and this partnership allows us to support the people and purpose that protect it.”
