Driver Zhang Tianhua of China and his pilot Lian Junjie of China compete during the 7th stage of the 2024 Taklimakan Rally in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 29, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Shuo)
URUMQI, China, May 29 (Xinhua) -- The seventh special stage (SS7) of the Taklimakan Rally took place on Wednesday, with racers showcasing their skills in anticipation of the final three stages.
The stage spanned about 123 kilometers, with the rally base moving from Luopu County to Aksu City in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The difficulty of the stage was slightly reduced compared to previous ones.
In the car category, Han Wei was the first to cross the finish line, followed by Sun Ping of the Shaanxi Yunxiang Club, who started third.
"The track was not particularly difficult but required caution, and a lapse in attention could easily lead to an accident. We were very careful, and the race was quite relaxed," said Han.
In the motorcycle category, Deng Liansong of the Kove finished first, with his teammate Neels Theric arriving shortly after. The French rider noted that the high-speed stages were similar to his training in his nation, giving him an edge over many Chinese riders.
"I am very satisfied with today's performance," he said. "The competition is not over yet, and my team and I will continue to strive for a good result."
The Taklimakan Rally will continue on Thursday in Aksu, covering a distance of 219 kilometers. ■
Driver Zi Yungang of China and his pilot Ma Wenke of China compete during the 7th stage of the 2024 Taklimakan Rally in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 29, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Shuo)
Rider Neels Theric of France races during the 7th stage of the 2024 Taklimakan Rally in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 29, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Shuo)
Driver Li Dazhi of China and his pilot Wang Xianchen of China compete during the 7th stage of the 2024 Taklimakan Rally in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 29, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Shuo)
Driver Ran Yong of China and his pilot Liu Ren of China compete during the 7th stage of the 2024 Taklimakan Rally in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 29, 2024. (Xinhua/Chen Shuo)
An aerial drone photo taken on May 29, 2024 shows a rider racing during the 7th stage of the 2024 Taklimakan Rally in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Chen Shuo)
