LAIA SANZ & SARA GARCIA Show Desert Racing How It’s Done at Rally Dakar
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February 1, 2020
GRRL! SUMMARY:
- Spanish rider LAIA SANZ delivered another standout Rally Dakar performance with a top-twenty finish in the world’s toughest desert rally, while SARA GARCIA conquered the demanding malle moto class. Rookies KIRSTEN LANDMAN and TAYE PERRY from South Africa proved newcomers can handle Dakar’s brutal conditions, and Dutch veteran MIRJAM POL secured 41st place.
- Rally racing offers the perfect bridge from adventure riding to competitive motorsport, combining stunning scenery, challenging navigation, and serious skill development in a controlled environment. European rallies like Hispania Rally and Hellas Rally Raid provide amateur-friendly entry points with multiple classes accommodating bikes from 250cc to 1200cc, plus GPS backup options for navigation newcomers.
- The rally community proves remarkably supportive regardless of experience level, with medical staff and helicopter coverage ensuring safety during the adrenaline rush. Entry fees typically run 550-700 euros, with optional mechanical assistance available for 1,500-1,800 euros – making rally racing accessible without requiring factory-level budgets or equipment.
UPCOMING:
- Hispania Rally – European amateur-friendly rally
- Hellas Rally Raid – Multi-class rally racing
LINKS TO RACER'S PROFILE PAGES:
GRRL! summary based upon reporting by Women ADV Riders originally appearing on womenadvriders.com
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