Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Former NASCAR driver Robby Gordon ready for his 10th Dakar Rally

 

   Former NASCAR driver Robby Gordon will begin his 10th Dakar Rally in Rosario, Argentina on Sunday as one of 149 international competitors. He will again attempt to become the first American to win the most extreme and demanding motorsports event in the world.  

   Widely regarded as one of the world’s best off-road racers, Gordon’s previous attempts at overall Dakar Rally victory have resulted in an amazing nine stage victories, however, the overall title has eluded him. In 2005, his initial Dakar Rally effort, he become the first American to win a stage in the race which began in 1979.

   Entering its 35th edition, Frenchmen have dominated the Rally, taking 19 overall victories. Finland has produced five race winners, Japan three, Germany two and one each from South Africa, Belgium, Qatar, Spain and Sweden.

   “I feel more prepared than in any of our previous trips to the Dakar Rally,” Gordon said. “Since our first race in 2005, where we accomplished our goal of becoming the first American to win a stage, our focus has been on winning the overall title. I believe with the experience we have, and the new car we have built, this year could be our time.”