Gert Huzink Celebrates Strong Finish in the Grand Finale of the 46th Dakar Rally

19.1.2024

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In a thrilling conclusion to the 46th Dakar Rally, Gert Huzink and the Jongbloed Dakar Team showcased their prowess during the twelfth and final stage, securing an impressive fourth place amidst the challenging Saudi Arabian dunes. Closing the rally on a high note, the Manderveen-based entrepreneur expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, terming the 178-kilometer stage as 'a quiet drive home.'

Pushing boundaries, the team navigated the sandy terrain, overtaking various vehicles and trucks, ultimately clinching eleventh place in the overall rankings. Reflecting on the day, Huzink acknowledged falling short of the top three but emphasized the significance of the achievement.

Starting from a disadvantaged position alongside navigator Rob Buursen and mechanic Martin Roesink, the team faced additional challenges with a hybrid drive management problem in the Renault truck. Despite the setback, they concluded the stage with a positive feeling, showcasing resilience and determination.

While the initial ambition of securing a top-three finish in the final rankings remained unfulfilled, Huzink expressed overall satisfaction with their Dakar performance. “It was a good Dakar if you look at the daily rankings. We won stages, secured top positions, and navigated the challenging marathon stage,” he noted.

Acknowledging the toughness of the Dakar Rally, Huzink reflected on the experience as one of the most challenging yet beautiful ones. As the team looks to the future, areas for improvement have been identified, with a commitment to evaluate and enhance performance.

A special mention was made for the Renault C460 Hybrid, as Huzink highlighted the successful investment in its development. Notably, he expressed gratitude for the exceptional work of MKR Technology, emphasizing the high level of expertise involved in building their reliable truck. “In these circumstances, where things are going so fast at the front, something can always go wrong. Then it doesn't matter which brand of truck you drive. I am very pleased with the work of MKR Technology that built our truck high level.

While recognizing that improvements can always be made, Huzink maintained a positive perspective, acknowledging the dynamic nature of Dakar competition. The team looks forward to enhancing reliability, speed, and focus for future rallies.

As the Dakar Rally concludes, Huzink and the crew will celebrate with fellow Dutch participants in Yanbu before returning to the Netherlands. With his birthday approaching on Sunday, Huzink looks forward to a brief celebration at home before getting back to work on Monday, seamlessly transitioning back into the normal rhythm of life. 

Results – Stage 12 - Yanbu - Yanbu (175 km):

1. Loprais (CZE) Praga 01:56:41
2. Valtr (CZE) Tatra +00:01:30
3. van Kasteren (NLD) Iveco +00:01:44
4. Huzink (NLD) Renault +00:05:51
5. Macik (CZE) Iveco +00:06:22
 

Overall
1. Macik (CZE) Iveco 54:34:48
2. Loprais (CZE) Praga +01:54:39
3. Mit. van den Brink (NLD)+04:29:26
4. van Kasteren (NLD) Iveco +05:22:04
5. Becx (NLD) Iveco +11:34:32
11. Huzink (NLD) Renault +61:07:11 

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