Bruno Bulacia, prominent Bolivian pilot, is preparing to participate in the Codasur Rally which will take place in Santa Cruz from August 22 to 25. In a recent Exclusive interview with El Deber Sports (EDS) in it El Deber Radio 103.3 FM, Bulacia shared their expectations, preparations and experiences around this important event. Bruno, with his passion, preparation and determination, is emerging as one of the Pilots to follow in the next Codasur Rally.
His love for motorsport, forged since childhood, has led him to become a benchmark for sport in Bolivia. With the support of his team and the encouragement of his followers, Bulacia intends to give his best at each stage of the competition, seekingnot only personal success, but also promoting the growth of motorsports in the countryHis interview provides a fascinating insight into the challenges and rewards of being an elite rally driver.
Origins of a passion
EDS: Where does your passion for motorsport come from?
BB: “Since I was born, my father took me to races. When I was five years old, I got into a go-kart for the first time. I grew up around cars. Being around mechanics from a young age meant that I grew up in a motorsport environment.”
Excitement and challenge at the Codasur Rally
EDS: How do you feel about the Codasur Rally?
BB: “I’m very excited. Taking part in the Codasur Rally is always a great challenge, and racing in Santa Cruz, where I have a huge fan base, makes it even more special. I’ve been training hard and I hope to give my best on every stage. This rally is crucial not only for my career, but also for motorsport in Bolivia. It’s an opportunity to showcase the talent we have in the country and to continue promoting this sport.”
The car and the team
EDS: How is your car?
BB: “It’s very good. All the cars are very similar, I would say that 90% of the work is done by the driver and 10% by the car. Among the best drivers, the cars are similar, there are not many differences.”
EDS: Who is your co-pilot?
BB: “My co-driver is Lucas Hurtado, the same one from last year, I’ve already raced with him in many races. The work depends on both of us, he has to tell me where to go, he has the roadmap and he guides me.”
EDS: Who makes up your team?
BB: “I have a very large team. We are renting the car from Paraguay, so the entire technical and mechanical team comes from there. Then I have my psychologist, a physical trainer and a person who looks at my social media. In addition, my father is always present.”
Language and requirements of the rally
EDS: What are the most common terms used in a roadmap?
BB: “They are complicated, there are many symbols and numbers. The main thing on a road map is to write down the meters and it speaks to you in numbers. Each pilot has his own language and adapts to the road map.”
EDS: Do you think Santa Cruz is suitable to host a World Rally Championship?
BB: “Santa Cruz has everything needed for a world rally, hopefully in the future it will be possible. The most important thing is to meet all the requirements of the International Automobile Federation. You have to work all year to host the event in one weekend.”
Terrains and objectives
EDS: What terrain do you feel most comfortable driving on?
BB: “I like snow the most, it’s the one I enjoy the most. Although I also like dirt and gravel. I grew up racing on dirt, you feel the car more, there’s more improvisation, it’s not as precise.”
EDS: What are your short and medium term goals?
BB: “I would like to compete in the Dakar Rally one day. When I’m no longer competing in rallies, I might try it. It’s something I’ve experienced first-hand, my father has competed in several Dakar Rallies.”
Economic challenges and preparation
EDS: How do you manage to cover all the expenses in an expensive sport like motor racing?
BB: “It’s a very expensive sport, you have to rely on sponsors to cover your expenses and be able to take part in the events.”
EDS: What does your training consist of?
BB: “I train with my physical trainer several days a week. Before the Rally I have to know everything about the route. I watch a lot of videos and study the routes. It’s more about studying and preparing your mind than physical training. That doesn’t mean you don’t have to be in good physical condition.”
Clothing and race conditions
EDS: What clothing do you use for each competition?
BB: “It’s special clothing for each driver, without which we can’t compete. We use fireproof clothing to avoid burns in case of fire. That’s where the helmet and a neck brace come in to protect us from strong impacts. There’s little mobility in the car.”
EDS: How do you manage heat and hydration during a race?
BB: “That’s a very important aspect, we don’t have air conditioning in the cars. We lose a huge amount of fluid because we sweat all the time. We take a lot of borrowed juices in the car to keep ourselves hydrated.”
