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by IANS |
Moquegua (Peru), Jan 11 : Seasoned Indian rider Aravind KP managed to complete the most challenging stage of the ongoing 2019 Dakar Rally, finishing the Stage 4 at 64th overall even as the other three Sherco TVS Rally Factory team riders also overcame the challenges to complete it.
The marathon Stage 4, comprising a 106-kilometre liaison and a 405-kilometre special, tested the Sherco TVS Rally Factory team riders as they rode from the Arequipa highlands to Moquegua. The marathon stage means the riders are on their own and get no assistance from their crew.
A portion of the terrain included rocky formations and the participants had to perform slalom runs in between them. Lorenzo Santolino continued to be aggressive in his riding and finished in the top 10 stage position. He holds the 13th position (overall) at the end of stage 4.
Another TVS rider Michael Metge had a small fall but he was able to get back on his bike quickly. He improved his ranking to the 26th position on Thursday. Adrien Metge had a good start and navigated successfully to finish the stage at 21st position. His overall ranking at the end of stage 4 is 16th.
Commenting on the team's performance, Team manager David Casteu said: "Our team navigated their way successfully through this complicated stage on tricky terrains and this reassures me. I am confident that the team will push their limits and make us proud. I am very excited to see them back at the bivouac after stage 5."
The riders will ride back to Arequipa in stage 5 covering a total distance of 776 km, which includes 345 km of special. This will be a marathon stage as well.
