January 5th Press Release Don Hatton and Dakar

Duncan BC (January 5, 2013)

Don Hatton of Rally Raid Canada has finished the first day of the 2013 Dakar Rally in Peru.

Lots and lots of sand

The better the time today, the better the starting position on the next day. Don finished 177th today.

“We know our speed is not the end all be all today – finishing is more important. Today’s special was more like a motorcross style ride in sand. Sand with no “crust” on it to allow you to get momentum going. ” Don noted.

The stage may be short but it is just as important as any stage on the Dakar. First day withdrawls due to crashes or mechanical failure are not uncommon.

Days Completed: 1 Days to go: 14

Rally Raid Racing Factoid – things you might not know or thought of :

This is the 35th edition of the Dakar. It is the 5th to take place on the South American continent, which has hosted the event since 2009. This years event is from January 5 to January 20 with the competitors following the route between Lima Peru and Santiago Chile, with a rest day on January 12 in Argentina.