The fascination and attraction of the Dakar are stronger than ever. This year, the rush of candidates for adventure to enrol forced us to close the registration lists mid-July, some six months before the event. Confirming the event’s international success, it was the eagerness of foreign competitors which was largely responsible for the early closing of the booking office. Submerged by requests, we heeded reason and decided to limit the caravan to a format close to that of 2005. The result is that there will be 240 motorcycles, 188 cars, 80 trucks and 240 assistance vehicles at the start in Lisbon, a new record! Over and beyond pure arithmetic, the testimonies of fellow-feeling and the degree of involvement, from new competitors and stalwarts alike, prove the extent to which men and women are attached to the Dakar. It is this irreplaceable bond which strikes, delights and drives us throughout the year to prepare the rally.
www.dakar.com
|