Race to Dakar: Paris.

... and so the adventure begins.  

I met Barrie, below middle, for the first time in 'real life' yesterday when he collected my bike. He's the reason this whole Dakar race experience is possible.  The guy that posted the original idea on a forum, built a team around him, arranged all the logistics, bought loads of kit, including a new 4x4 and then contributed hours and hours of personal time to make it all happen. Top bloke!

Below:  the team assembled in Paris for the ceremonial start. 

After meeting me, Barrie continued south to London and picked up Tom, top left, and his KTM 450, before travelling to France to collect Maxine, top right and his Honda Africa Twin.  Maxime has competed in 12hr road rallies in France, so i suspect he one to watch. Tom is a fast clubman level enduro racer, so again, better than me.... perhaps i can follow their tracks through the sand?

Below; Mine and Toms bike on the chunnel travelling to the start of the Rally

My Dakar Rally journey does not begin until Saturday when i fly to meet the team in Almeria, Spain. Sitting here reading the Whatsapp messages i'm super jealous!!  I also feel fricking ancient looking at the age of Tom and Maxine in the top photo!  Old guys rule though, right? ;o)


Below: The RAIDASSIST team support vehicle.