Jongbloed Dakar Team Tackles Challenges in Dakar Rally's Stage 5 and Prepares for Marathon Stage 6

10.1.2024

Photo gallery
Total 9

Shubaytah, January 10, 2024 - The Jongbloed Dakar Team, led by driver Gert Huzink, faced a series of challenges in Stage 5 of the Dakar Rally, which spanned from Al-Hofuf to Shubaytah, covering a total distance of 727km with a special stage of 118km through mostly dunes. The team commenced the stage before dawn, concluding their race under the sunset.

Despite encountering the first technical problem with the truck - a partially malfunctioning turbo resulting in reduced power - Gert Huzink and the team showcased remarkable resilience, securing an impressive 5th place finish. The challenges included starting in the 20th position, navigating through a multitude of cars and dust, making the accomplishment even more commendable.

Gert Huzink expressed satisfaction with the team's performance in Stage 5, emphasizing the unity and focus that prevailed within the team. The night before the stage, the team convened to discuss their goals, and Huzink was pleased that they successfully executed their strategy.

Speaking on the technical glitch, Huzink downplayed its significance, stating that such issues are expected in the demanding Dakar Rally environment. He highlighted the team's confidence in the truck's overall performance, and the mechanics were equally pleased with the results.

Looking forward, Stage 6 presents another formidable challenge for the Jongbloed Dakar Team.The marathon stage, named the 48hr Chrono Superstage, will commence and conclude in Shubaytah, covering a total of 727km with an extensive special stage of 532km. Notably, this stage introduces a twist to neutralize the advantage of factory teams.

The stage-opening bikes and cars will follow a different route, increasing the complexity of navigation with hidden waypoints. Additionally, competitors will have until 4 pm to progress as far as possible before reaching one of eight bivouacs along the route. During the bivouac stay, they will have limited provisions and camping materials, and their machinery will be secured until morning. Resuming the race from 7 am, participants will sprint back to Shubaytah, marking the end of the marathon stage and leading to a well-deserved rest day.

As the Jongbloed Dakar Team continues to navigate the challenges of the Dakar Rally, they remain focused on showcasing their resilience, teamwork, and competitive spirit on the challenging desert terrain. 

Results – Stage5 - Al-Hofuf - Shubaytah (118 km):
1. Macik (CZE) Iveco +01:52:25
2. Mit. van den Brnk (NLD) Iveco +00:01:22
3. Versteijnen (NLD) Iveco +00:07:55
4. de Baar (NLD) Tatra +00:12:49
5. Huzink (NLD) Renault +00:16:52

Overall
1. van Kasteren (NLD) Iveco 20:01:22
2. Macik (CZE) Iveco +00:22:03
3. Loprais (CZE) Praga +00:26:05
4. de Baar (NLD) Tatra +00:48:56
5. Mit. van den Brnk (NLD) Iveco +01:06:21 
8. Huzink (NLD) Renault +02:13:26 

Sdílet: