Who would have thought it? Not only is a Mini leading the current Dakar but Minis are also 2nd 3rd and 6th!
2009 winner South African Giniel de Villiers is currently 5th in his South African built Toyota Hilux.
Robby Gordon in a Hummer is in 4th.
We get a 30 minute highlights package each evening, just enough to keep up to date with the race (remember there are bikes, quads and trucks as well as the cars.) It’s far too short, so the official Dakar site is always a good read, great pictures too!
Boadicea's Chariot 
This Mini is currently second, I simply love this pic.
Eurosport also covers the event for the aficionados.
Am I right in saying the whole rally is in South America now instead of Africa due to security risks? A chap still died on the first day I hear.
Good old Minis! The originals that won the World Rally Championships in the 60’s are in a nearby museum – beautiful things. The modern ones from Cowley designed by krauts just aren’t the same for me! Great picture though!
Correct, I think it was a coup in Mauritania that cancelled the event. Lets face it I can think of preferable countries than Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco for a holiday at the moment.
The rally is held in Argentina, Chile and includes Peru this year for the first time.
You’re right about this year’s Minis not being the same as the ’60’s ones, here’s proof!
That very mini is in the Gayton museum of which I speak.
A great half day out for anyone who lives near to j12 of the m40 – especially if you combine it with the 4×4 experience. Daughter No1 had her first driving lesson there aged 15 in a Landy Discovery – what a day!