The Taklimakan Rally heated up on Friday in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region as competitors faced the third special stage of the grueling race. A dramatic twist unfolded in the motorcycle category when early leader Martin Michek of the Hoto Factory Racing Team crashed mid-stage, disrupting his momentum and shaking up the standings.
Seizing the opportunity, Michek’s teammate Arunas Gelazninkas delivered a stellar performance over the challenging 279.44-kilometer course. Gelazninkas crossed the finish line first with an impressive time of 3 hours, 32 minutes, and 52 seconds, intensifying the rivalry within the team and setting the stage for an exciting battle ahead.
In the car division, competitors tackled an even longer route of 334.61 kilometers. Su Haotian and navigator Ma Wenke from the Gansu TV Chiyue Sports Racing Team emerged victorious, clocking the fastest time of 3 hours, 34 minutes, and 42 seconds. Their skillful navigation and teamwork propelled them to the top of the leaderboard.
The rally continues on Saturday with Stage 4, a 246-kilometer segment that promises more thrills and challenges. After the day’s racing, the rally camp will move to Luopu County in Hotan Prefecture, bringing the competition closer to its climax.
