It happens that Stage 5 runs right through our operating concession in the province of Mendoza.
There is some secrecy to the route , so as not give an advantage to any of the competitors...but the vagueness of the route could also put them right on top of a wellhead at the speeds they are travelling.
They had a symbolic start last Saturday and the competitors toured a loop in the city.
Lots of folks were out to watch and the riders got into the spirit of the event......
- driving slowly, high-fiving little kids...
and revving their engines. I was out watching for three hours and it continued on for another two. In some cases, they took their time winding their way through the crowds that developed in the middle of the road.
We were quite confident about their navigation abilities going through/near our operating area......until one of our managers was asked by a competititor for directions to get to the starting line here in BA - I kid you not.
These guys do carry a few spare parts with them...hopefully, that includes a spare GPS.
A couple of Dakar Rally fans out for a walk....
Parades always bring out all kinds of folks......
Parades always bring out all kinds of folks......
Unfortunately, the lone Canadian (Don Hatton from Duncan, BC) withdrew after today's Stage 4 due to an injury. I did, however, catch a glimpse of him during the pre-race day ride - but I only caught a picture of his backside - he got by me before I realized it was him. He's looking pretty good riding down Avenida Callao....I dont think he looks so shiny today.
It was up to this poor policeman to keep the folks safely back from the vehicles. Even I have lived here long enough to know that it was a waste 'o time.
I have decided that after watching some of the event footage, travelling 10,000 km on a quad or a motorcycle on the terrain near our operating area - is something I will leave to these guys....and girls.
And Rider 93, Annie Seel (yes, from Sweden) is still in the race.
B.
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