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NEWS
Dakar stage 12: Verhoeven dominates
The Dutchman dominated on a 319km stage which was a mixed bag of terrain: sand, stones, rocks and dunes. Frenchman Cyril Despres still leadsYamaha rider Frans Verhoeven made it count in stage 12 of Dakar 2013, and dedicated his victory to former Yamaha France Dakar legend Jean-Claude Olivier who tragically passed away last week.
“We would not be here without Jean-Claude,” Verhoeven said. “JCO has been an inspiration for us, ever since the time Stéphane Peterhansel won for Yamaha. Therefore this victory is dedicated to his memory.
“My Yamaha 450 did not have one small hiccup today. The potential of this bike is amazing. Today compensates for the trouble I had in the first week. I was able to keep the pace high for all of the stage. Immediately from the beginning I started to hunt down Faria, who had started a minute in front of me, and Duclos, who had three minutes. I rode like a motocross rider.
“Before the tank stop at 169km I had overtaken Faria and was on Duclos’ tail. It was one of those days when you know exactly what you do and where you are. The perfect day and a little bit more. I made no mistakes and was in super balance. Everything I did worked out the best possible way.”
The result places Verhoeven in seventh position overall, with defending champion Cyril Despres continuing to lead ahead of KTM brandmates Rube Faria and Chaleco Lopez.
Verhoeven, NED (Yamaha) completed he 319km timed stage in three hours, 49 minutes and 15 seconds (3.49:15), ahead of Faria (3.50:53), Joan Barreda (Husqvarna, 3.52:16), Alain Duclos (Sherco, 3.52:32) and Helder Rodrigues (Honda, 3.52:50).
Todd Smith (Honda) was the leading Aussie in 21st, and he’s now 34th overall. Rod Faggotter (Yamaha) is 15th overall, one spot ahead of KTM’s Ben Grabham.
Paul Smith (Honda) is seventh overall in the quad division.
Friday is the penultimate stage of the 2013 edition as riders head for Santiago and travel from Copiapo south along the Pacific Coast to La Serena in a 735km ride, of which there is another long timed special of 441km.
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Written byBikesales Staff
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