Safari Rally is an exciting sport for fans and drivers: the speed, rough terrains, the sudden stops, turns, dusts, mud, high-octane and sometimes, what looks like flying rally cars.

These racing vehicles are made to be sturdy, agile and versatile with a strong braking system. Within these vehicles though, are drivers and their assistants—made of flesh and bone—and the pounding on rough roads at high speeds exposes them to a myriad of injuries and, in worse cases, disabilities or even death.

Safety is a priority in this sport.

Before racing, the cars are inspected to ensure they meet the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) standards of safety, such as a roll cage, a reinforced fuel tank and special seat belts.

Beyond the car, the drivers also protect themselves by wearing gear from head to toe, such as fireproof overalls, socks, shoes and gloves. The helmet serves as protective gear in case of any head injuries and holds communication equipment in place for quick coordination between the driver,co-driver and crew.

McRae Kimathi, Hamza Anwar, Jeremiah Wahome and Maxine Wahome are part of the FIA Rally Stars programme and have been sponsored by Safaricom for two years. They told us more about their protective gear on race day and how it keeps them safe.

Watch the video below for more.