Sheikh Khalid expects tough test in DIR

Sport360 staff 02:25 08/12/2016
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  • The Emirati has happy memories in this event with back-to-back success in 2005 and 2006 before regaining the title 12 months ago.

    He has a good chance of adding to that tally on Friday especially with 10-time winner Nasser Al Attiyah absent but he insists it will be a “difficult challenge” as he steps up his preparations for next month’s Dakar Rally.

    “I’ve won this Dubai International Rally a few times and for sure, it’s very close to my heart,” he said. “It’s very special as it gives me a chance to compete in front of my home fans. But it will be a different and difficult challenge ahead.

    “I want to do well and just practise for the Dakar Rally.”

    Twenty seven drivers stand in his way of glory but their chances could be boosted with Sheikh Khalid admitting he is stepping into unknown territory with his co-driver Pascal Maimon.

    “I’ve never met him but from what I’ve known of him, he’s won the Dakar a couple of times and he’s a big name in the sport. I don’t know what he looks like so tomorrow will be the first time I meet him. It will give us a chance to build up some chemistry,” he said of the Frenchman, who will also be his team-mate for the Dakar Rally.

    Leading trio Mohammed Al Balooshi, Mohammed Jaffar and Khalid Al Falasi will be among the 44 competitors in the Moto category.

    They will be joined by debutant Fahad Al Musallam, who is looking forward to his biggest test so far.

    “It’s going to be challenging and I’m quite nervous,” said the 22-year-old. “I really don’t know what to expect but my goal is just to finish the race safely and not get lost,” added the Kuwaiti Wednesday.

    There will be female participation in the Moto category with Dana Miskulnig looking to prove that gender is no barrier when she gets on her bike. “Being the only girl racing, it will push me further to do better than the guys,” said the 23-year-old Austrian, who was born in the UAE.

    “It’s a longer distance that I usually race so it’s going to be a psychological game to do well.

    “It also means that with the route being bigger, the margin for error is also big.”

    This year is of huge importance as organisers hope to impress the FIA, that they’re worthy of joining next year’s World Cup for Cross Country Rallies calendar.

    With more than 80 entries received in the cars, bikes/quads and buggys categories, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE), remains upbeat.

    “I am confident we will pass the assessment, but I don’t want to relax because when you feel relaxed, you can make mistakes,” said the 15-time winner.

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