Chinese racers complete first stage of Dakar

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All eight Chinese racers have completed first timed stage through the Peruvian desert dunes from Lima to Pisco of 2019 Dakar Rally on Monday, with Qatar's Nasser Al-Attiyah taking the early lead.

The two-time Dakar winner, driving for a South African Toyota team, led Spain's reigning champion and double Dakar winner Carlos Sainz by nearly two minutes after the 84-kilometer opening stage.

On the motorbike, Spain's Joan Barreda leads a minute and 34 seconds in front of Chile's Pablo Quintanilla.

Chinese motor racer Zhao Hongyi, ranked 79th, told Xinhua: “The route is the same as last year, so I am familiar with it. Some sections are tough and easily get cars sunk in sands. In general, I am in good pace, and I am getting along well with my new vehicle. I still need to adapt to the rally, as it is the first day after all.”

China's Zhang Min (L) and Zhao Hongyi are pictured on the podium on the first day of the Dakar Rally in Lima, January 6, 2019. /VCG Photo

While for 65-year-old Liang Yuxiang, the oldest competitor in China's racing history, the “warm-up” race is only an “appetizer” for him. “There is only some 80 kilometers, and you cannot really experience the hardship. It is my first time to feel sands, stones and climate in South America. The real challenge is tomorrow.”

The second of ten stages takes place on Tuesday, 553 kilometers between Pisco and San Juan de Marcona.

Known as Death Rally, a total of 334 vehicles started the 41st edition of the event, which is run entirely in Peru this year, with 541 competitors.

The endurance rally, regarded as the world's toughest motorsport challenge, ends in Lima on January 17.

(With input from Xinhua and Reuters)