“ Together we got the job done . Amazing .”
And yet , despite a near flawless ride , Sunderland didn ’ t have everything his own way . GASGAS ’ s sophomore Dakar entrant , Daniel Sanders took up the challenge , demonstrating amazing pace and skills to win stages , lead the event and challenge for outright victory .
Sanders claimed two stage wins , and on the final day of racing in week one , led Sam home for a GASGAS onetwo . After what was a truly awesome first week of desert racing the Australian ’ s rally came to a disappointing end when a crash whilst leaving that night ’ s bivouac resulted in the Australian fracturing his left elbow and wrist . Despite the huge disappointment for Sanders and the team , Sunderland overcame a seriously tough stage to put in a champion ’ s performance and navigate superbly . Completing the stage by losing a minimal amount of time to his rivals . It was this maturity that kept Sunderland in contention throughout the Dakar .
The theme throughout the 41st edition of the Dakar was that of extreme conditions , matched by tough navigation and at times , extreme pace .
“ There was some tricky navigation ,” continued Sunderland . “[ At times it was very ] sandy , and very fast .”
Sentiments backed up by many other riders , relishing the challenge and rueing the lost opportunities .
“ It was a really tough race , with a lot of tension ,” agreed
Pic - GIGI SOLDANO
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