Her debut in the World Rally Championship (WRC) did not go unnoticed by the crowds of sports enthusiasts who had travelled from far and wide to be a part of the exhilarating game.

From the upbeat charisma, confidence and determination she exuded during the numerous interviews, it was clear that 19-year-old Tinashe Gatimu was no ordinary teenager.

She and her mother Caroline Gatimu, who also acted as her navigator, received an award from President William Ruto for their exemplary performance in the Safari Rally.

But how did the 19-year-old come to be competing against the best drivers in the world?

Kenyan Rally driver Tinashe Gatimu. She has featured twice in the WRC Safari rally championship.

Photo credit: Purity Kinuthia/Mtaa Wangu

In an interview with Mtaa Wangu, Tinashe says her fate was sealed from the moment she was born, with both her parents involved in the sport.

"I come from a safari rally family. We are all speed junkies, my mum is a driver and my dad has been navigating in the rally space for years. They both inspired me to pursue a career in rallying," says Tinashe.

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Recalling her first competition, she notes that she built her career from the Karting championship at the age of 10. The rally seed was nurtured by her parents to get her into rally championships.

"I started with a Toyota Levine, which set me on an upward trajectory in the rally world. My debut in the Safari Rally was in 2023, where my mother navigated me. Her guidance in my ear has made us a great pair in the rally world. It is exciting to be able to test my limits alongside someone who has championed my growth in motorsport since I was a child," she says.

Rally driver Tinashe Gatimu and her mother who is also her navigator Caroline Gatimu at the WRC service park during the 71st WRC Safari rally in Naivasha.

Photo credit: Purity Kinuthia/Mtaa Wangu

For Tinashe, competing and finishing the third leg of the FIA WRC Safari Rally was a dream come true. She can only hope for a better ranking and a thrilling ride in consecutive seasons.

"I had to take over from experienced rally driver Erick Bengi, who has had a huge influence on me as my mentor. My goal is to get better every day," she says.

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Influenced by her love of cars and the thrill of speed, she notes that she would like to study mechatronics and compete on the world stage.

Her message to young girls who want to enter the world of motorsport is to believe that it is possible.

"My mum did it and I am doing it now. We have a great support system from both men and women in motorsport. Women in motorsport is something we look forward to seeing and growing," she notes.

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