Dakar day 7 - Simon Pavey blog

The World of BMW Off-Road Skills Chief Instructor Simon Pavey has impressively finished Day 7 of the Rally, riding 815km from Mendoza in Argentina and crossing the border to Chile to arrive in the bivouac in Valparaiso.

Pavey finished the Special Timed Stage in a credible 58th position and is placed 49th overall in the Rally.

Writing for MCN, Pavey said:

“Today we were faced with the South American version of the African sand dunes,” explained the four times Dakar finisher.

“We also had tricky mountain passes and technical terrain to ride. It was a real challenge and it took every bit of my energy to get through today.

“Many of the riders are showing they are worn down and I think that everyone will take full advantage of the rest day ahead of us.

“I’m lucky because I have a support crew that will help me get my BMW G 650 Xchallenge serviced and fix any damage that I have done.

“Unfortunately some of the other privateers will have to do all of the work themselves and then get up before 5am the next day and start riding.

“The Dakar is a real test of rider ability and mental endurance. It takes a certain type of character to be able to get through the extreme conditions and challenges that are part of this Rally.

“I’m looking forward to a day off the bike tomorrow and then I’m sure I’ll be hungry to get back on and ride again.”

Valparaiso is where Simon Pavey and the other competitors that have reached this stage will enjoy a “rest day” before setting out for the final solid eight days of the 2009 Argentina – Chile Dakar Rally.