Top East African riders set for motocross season opener at Garuga

All is set for a thrilling Easter weekend as top riders from across East Africa converge for what promises to be one of the most competitive motocross events of the year.

The opening round of the Central African Motocross Challenge Championship (CAC) will roar to life at Garuga Race Track on April 5, drawing elite talent from Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

The spotlight will be firmly on the fiercely contested 85cc category, where some of the region's finest young riders are set to clash. Championship leader Jamaira Makumbi enters the race in formidable form, fresh off a victory in Kalisizo. Since stepping up to the 85cc class, she has proven a tough competitor, combining speed and consistency.

However, Kenya's Atete Benzinge is expected to mount a serious challenge. With solid experience in the class, Benzinge will be aiming for nothing less than victory, setting up a compelling cross-border duel at the top. Fellow Kenyan Amani Amani will also be in the mix, going head-to-head with Uganda's Jonathan Katende and promising newcomer Ethan Musede, adding further intensity to the category.

In the 125cc class, Tanzania's Simon Son will be eyeing top honors as he battles Uganda's Miguel Katende and Jerom Mubiru in what is expected to be another tightly fought contest.

The MX2 category promises its own fireworks, with Liam Miller, son of motocross veteran Gerald Miller, set to take on a strong Ugandan lineup that includes Gift Sebuguzi and Milton Akaki. The competition is expected to intensify further with Kenya's Tailor going up against Uganda's Fortune Dental and Maxin Van Pee in what could be one of the standout battles of the weekend.

In the Veterans (Vets) class, Albert Kruse, a German-born rider competing under a Rwandan licence, will go up against the experienced Asat Natan in a clash of skill and endurance.

The event will not only count toward the Central African Motocross Challenge Championship standings but will also contribute points to the National Motocross Championship, raising the stakes for all competitors.

With regional pride, championship points, and early-season momentum on the line, fans can expect a high-octane spectacle as the 2026 motocross season bursts into life at Garuga.