In what will be GASGAS Factory Racing’s third official participation in the Dakar Rally.It’s safe to say we’re tackling this one head on! With former race winner Sam Sunderland.
And young charger Daniel Sanders both excited to get the 44th edition of the world’s toughest rally raid underway. Racing will finally begin tomorrow with the event’s Prologue. Set to determine the starting order for the first proper stage, which follows the very next day.
- Sam and Daniel line up for their first Dakar with GASGAS
- Dakar Rally shakedown safely completed
- The 2022 Dakar begins tomorrow, January 1
With both Sam and Daniel enjoying a positive pre-race shakedown. Where they were able to break in their GASGAS RC 450F Rally bikes.
And dial in their set-ups ahead of tomorrow’s Prologue. Both riders ended the session confident, comfortable, and excited for the challenge that lies ahead.
Knowing the unexpected at the Dakar, the 2022 edition will mark Sam Sunderland’s ninth start at the prestigious annual event. A previous race winner in 2018.
The Brit has an abundance of experience. And certainly possesses the skills needed to challenge for a place on the overall podium.
Dakar
Delivering an awe-inspiring fourth-place result at the Dakar just under one year ago. The ever-confident Daniel Sanders returns to the race following a solid season competing in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship 2021.
With the Aussie ultimately claiming a bronze medal in the FIM series. And now armed with even more experience, he has a fierce shot of success at the 2022 Dakar.
Sam and Daniel are now making their final preparations ahead of the short, 19-kilometer Prologue.Quickly followed by six gruelling stages.
A mid-race rest day then follows before they take on another six demanding days of competition.Each taking them one step closer to the finish line in Jeddah on January 14.
Quote
Sam Sunderland: “We’re just one day away from the Prologue and the start of the Dakar.So it’s a pretty exciting time! We had a positive shakedown a couple of days ago.So we’re all set to get things started.
The Dakar always throws up some surprises, so it’ll be important to stay focused, keep looking forwards.And stay calm. For sure.I’m aiming for a strong result.And I think it’s certainly possible to get on the overall podium once again.”
Daniel Sanders: “The shakedown went well, and it was a good chance to run the bike in, set it up for the race, and make sure everything is spot on for a start. It was good to loosen up the body on the bike a little bit and shake out the nerves before the serious stuff started. I felt great on the bike.Everything was perfect, and I really can’t wait to get this race underway.”
via GASGAS
