The second part of the marathon stage consisted of mainly fast trails. Actually a case of full throttle until you have to slow down due to the dust from the vehicles in front. As a reward for pushing through, a strip of beautiful dunes followed. And Gerrit Zuurmond was looking forward to that. “It gets a bit more technical in the sand and we could make a difference. That usually suits us.” says Gerrit Zuurmond.
Unfortunately, it didn't happen because the trucks were directed off the course at that last part of the dunes. The organization made that decision because too many people attended. Safety comes first, but it is unfortunate that the stage was shortened solely for the trucks. The men in MAN take it for what it is. No anger or heavy disappointment, but a down-to-earth “Pity and unfortunately.”
The organization's decision will undoubtedly have to do with last year. The Czech Ales Loprais was then unfortunately involved in a fatal collision with a spectator.
Anyway: No dunes for dessert and therefore a day that we can quickly pass by. Thanks to an excellent 14th position in the daily ranking, the Rainbow Truck Team rose to 12th place in the general ranking. Nothing special with the truck. Apart from a blowout, there are no other exciting things to report.
Tomorrow the caravan will head towards the Empty Quarter. In that immense sandbox, Gerrit Zuurmond, with navigator Tjeerd van Ballegooij and mechanic Klaas Kwakkel, can still try to make a difference and drive towards the top 10.
Source: Rainbow Truck Team's official page
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