The Taklimakan Rally, celebrated for its extreme challenges, delivered an unexpected twist on Saturday. The ninth special stage in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region was dramatically shortened from the planned 209.99 kilometers to just 81 kilometers due to fierce winds and sandstorms. 🌪️
The event proved to be a technical battleground for competitors. In the motorcycle division, the Hoto Factory Racing Team saw Lithuanian rider Arunas Gelazninkas clinch the stage with a time of 1:22:25, while teammate Martin Michek from the Czech Republic kept the overall lead. Meanwhile, in the car category, Fan Gaoxiang along with navigator Fu Liguo from Hebei Qian'an Jiujiang Auto and Motorcycle Sports Club posted the quickest time of 1:15:55.
With only 52 kilometers remaining in the final stage on Sunday, every driver and rider is set to push their limits in this high-stakes finish. The shortened stage added an extra layer of intensity and excitement, proving that even nature’s challenges can elevate the thrill of the race. 🏁
Reference(s):
Stage 9 shortened at Taklimakan Rally due to adverse weather
cgtn.com
