Retired American motocross star Andrew Short continues to capitalize on the lessons he learned in his first Dakar rally in 2018. Showing improved speed in nearly every stage, Short was fifth in the physically demanding stage eight in San Juan de Marcona and his consistent performance now has him in seventh position overall with just two stages to go.
“It was interesting to start the stage alongside the cars. A few kilometres into the stage I got passed by Nani Roma’s car and he was going really fast on the roads. But then once it got bumpy I was able to pass him and do my own race. After the fuel stop we entered the dunes and they were massive. I got to ride alongside a few other riders and our pace was good. Today there were lots of riders struggling with bike issues or making mistakes in navigation. For me personally I felt really good. I was going as hard as I could for most of the stage and for the last 30 kilometres I felt fatigued so decided to keep it steady. I’m trying to get better on every stage and every day and that’s what matters the most for me.”
Dakar had been a constant challenge to race leaders in the bike category with American Ricky Brabec suffering the most devastating hit during stage 8 when the motor on his Monster Energy Honda let go. “It was a shame, but I will go away happy with the good pace that I have set in this Dakar. I will return with even more motivation next year,” stated the American as he arrived back at the Pisco bivouac.
For Short, a top seven would be a remarkable finish a solidify his position among the world’s elite rally racers.
2019 Dakar Rally – Stage 8 Provisional Classification
1. Matthias Walkner (KTM) 03:55:25
2. Pablo Quintanilla (Husqvarna) 03:56:10
3. Toby Price (KTM) 03:56:38
4. Sam Sunderland (KTM) 04:01:46
5. Andrew Short (Husqvarna) 04:05:16
6. Adrien Van Beveren (Yamaha) 04:07:13
2019 Dakar Rally – Provisional Overall Standings After Stage 8
1. Toby Price (KTM) 28:53:08
2. Pablo Quintanilla (Husqvarna) 28:54:11
3. Matthias Walkner (KTM) 28:59:43
4. Sam Sunderland (KTM) 28:59:46
5. Adrien Van Beveren (Yamaha) 29:03:02
6. Kevin Benavides (Honda) 29:14:49
7. Andrew Short (Husqvarna) 29:32:35
