The dunes of Wadi ad Dawasir are a true master’s degree to learn to pilot a raid event under conditions. This Sunday’s was … the first stage after the rest day and it has been long, since we have had to complete 877 kilometers between the link and the 451 of the special. Still, I am very happy with how things have gone for me, since I have been able to ride at a good pace. I came in 46th place and overall I am ranked 52nd, which exceeds my expectations.
It is beginning to be noticed that from now on we are going to have more sand than stones on the route. Between Monday and Wednesday we face three stages that will be key in the Dakar. Today we have the longest special of the Rally with 483 kilometers that will pass through hard tracks and canyons but also through some areas of relative respite in dunes. This Tuesday the second marathon of this edition awaits us. Next to nothing. These days I am going to sleep early because I want to recover hours of sleep, since rest is more important every day.
With Sunday’s stage we have passed the midpoint of the test and I am still having a hard time assimilating all the accumulated experiences that I am putting in my backpack. I am very happy with what I have experienced in the first week and with the work we have done up to this point. I can’t complain about how things are going for me.
On a personal level I feel strong, both physically and emotionally, and I feel like I am enjoying every kilometer, which is what I came for. The bike runs wonderfully and that is the result of the impeccable work of the mechanics and the entire team, who have not left a single detail to chance. I have a feeling of balance, that everything fits together, and that in these types of stages that are coming, where everything is sand, is worth gold. They are days that require a lot of concentration and patience.
If the second week goes half as well as the first, and we ride half as fast and as constant, I am more than satisfied. I go out with that mentality and I approach it like that. We have to continue building kilometer by kilometer.
All of this comes together with the support I am receiving from home, which has me really excited. I don’t really know how to describe it, but feeling that heat, that energy that reaches me from so far away, fills me with strength. Every message, every show of affection pushes me a little more and motivates me to continue giving my all. I am happy with what I am giving and I am very motivated to continue the adventure.
A few days ago, some friends came to see me. It is something that is priceless, because it allowed me to disconnect when I had time, laugh, and feel close to home. It has given me a huge push. Those moments have helped me realize everything that is happening.
In the fight for the general classification, Daniel Sanders continues to be the most consistent and Ricky Brabec, the second, sees his position in danger after Benavides’ recent victories. The thing is entertaining. In cars this Sunday, Ekstrom won, who knew how to hold on until the last sector, and Al Attiyah, the leader, will have to push because everyone is going for him.
