Dakar Rally 2010

For most of us in North America, we are engrossed in the NFL playoffs this time of year. Just an observation, I certainly enjoy the playoffs. But during the first few weeks of January, a very unusual and amazing race is takes place South of the Equator.

The Dakar Rally is probably the hardest most grueling motor race on the planet. Motor bikes, Cars, Suvs and Massive Trucks race for 2 weeks over the most difficult terrain. Last year, only half of the participants actually finished the race. Traditionally, the Dakar Race takes place in Africa, but the last 2 years it has been in South America winding through Argentina and Chile.

Anyhow, I am fascinated with the "Truck" Division. They are the scariest and baddest trucks you will ever see. They are not pickups, real trucks, massive in size.

Take a look at the "Trucks" in Stage 5 of the Dakar Rally, simply incredible.

Here is also a video from the traditional course in Africa. Scarey

So here is my one complaint, it is an international race and the USA has almost little presence and with that zero success. The Russians have been the King of Dakar with their amazing Kamaz Trucks, probably the toughest trucks on the planet. Don't believe me? => watch them in action.

I want to see a USA Truck Team with USA engineering take on the Dakar. I fear, it may never happen. Personally, it would be a dream to see this Rally, it would be incredible to drive one of those "trucks" out in the open. A thrill of a life time.

So who wants to launch TEAM USA for the Dakar Rally? Let's go!