Dunes, Speed, and Grit: Racers Battle Harsh Terrain in Xinjiang
The Taklimakan Rally’s second special stage turned up the heat 🔥 as competitors tackled a grueling 115km desert route in Aksu Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Soft dunes and unpredictable terrain pushed drivers and riders to their limits, with navigation skills as crucial as raw speed.
🏆 Day 2 Champions Emerge
Czech rider Martin Michek of Hoto Factory Racing Team defied a fever 🤒 to clinch his second straight motorcycle division win (2:39:51). Meanwhile, China’s Zhang Biaobiao and Wang Xiaofeng dominated the car category with a blistering 2:31:07 finish. Four-time champ Han Wei played it safe, finishing in 2:36:22 – a strategy that might pay off as the rally intensifies.
What’s Next? 🌪️
Friday’s 335km Keping stage promises even bigger challenges. Will Michek’s health hold up? Can Zhang maintain his lead? One thing’s clear: this rally is a masterclass in endurance and precision!
