Day 3 of the Hellas Rally Raid 2024 began with great energy and sunny weather. Itea, renowned for its pleasant seaside conditions, once again provided an ideal backdrop for the day's race.
At 9:30 AM, the first participant, Tobias Ebster riding his KTM EXC 450, opened the Special Stage, embarking on a challenging course of approximately 130 kilometers. The route predominantly featured rocky terrain with dry ground and dust, incorporating both technical sections and stretches where participants could accelerate. Today's course delivered intense competition and spectacular performances from all participants.
Leonard Tonelli in the M3 category managed to deliver an incredible performance on this dusty terrain, clocking the best time of the day with 2h26:16.80.
In the M1 category, Eristi Ejder Tekin achieved the best time of the day in 2h45:57.32, while in the M2 category, Mattia Riva recorded a time of 2h36:17.36. The M4 category saw Andrea Rocchi achieving a time of 2h34:23.22, and in the M5 category, Francesco Puocci from Italy had a time of 2h48:19.51.
Notably, Jacopo Cerutti delivered an impressive performance riding a big cc motorbike, the Aprilia Tuareg 660. Despite the potential "disadvantage" of such a bike for achieving top times, Jacopo and the Aprilia Racing Team proved otherwise, with Jacopo securing a time of 2h27:26.24—the second best performance of the day.
Additionally, the Quads category showcased remarkable performances, with Baille Anthony finishing in 2h33:25.63 and Kanopkinas Antanas close behind with a time of 2h34:31.35.
In the SSV category, the duo Hugues-Delfino once again achieved the best time with 2h12:11.15, followed by Rouvier-Delfino D., trailing by 7:41 minutes.
As the day concludes, riders and drivers will need to conserve their energy and recuperate, along with conducting necessary mechanical inspections and adjustments. Tomorrow marks the first day of the Marathon Stage, with a demanding 260 kilometers of Special Stage, heading towards Karpenissi where they will spend the night. No mechanical assistance will be allowed, requiring riders to handle all maintenance tasks on their own.
Text Credits: Hellas Rally Raid
Photo Credits: Actiongraphers
Video Credits: ICARUS Sports
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