Competitors at Stage 7 of the Taklimakan Rally faced challenging conditions on Wednesday as a dust storm swept through northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, forcing racers to slow down on the 82-kilometer route.
Despite the poor weather, veteran Lithuanian rider Arunas Gelazninkas of the Hoto Factory Racing Team maintained a steady approach. Navigating multiple dunes, he clinched the Stage 7 victory in 1 hour, 10 minutes, and 9 seconds. His Czech teammate, Martin Michek, retained the overall lead in the motorcycle category.
While a clear leader emerged among the motorcyclists, the car category remained fiercely competitive. Top contenders such as Liu Yangui, Fan Gaoxiang, and Tao Yongming are still in close contention for the overall title.
The stage victory in the car category went to Duonai Shock Absorber Team’s driver Zhu Guanghai and navigator Chen Qingkai, who finished in 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 29 seconds.
The rally will pause for its final rest day on Thursday before moving into the decisive stages in Makit County, Kashgar Prefecture. With only a few stages left, the competition is heating up as racers gear up for the final stretch.
Reference(s):
Dust, drama force racers to slow down at Stage 7 of Taklimakan Rally
cgtn.com
