Date: 8th January 2024
Al Duwadimi, Saudi Arabia – After three challenging days at the 2024 Dakar Rally, Glenn Brinkman and Dale Moscatt have demonstrated unwavering determination and resilience in the face of a number of setbacks.
On the opening day of the rally, the “On the Brink Motorsport” duo showcased their prowess by securing a commendable 16th place finish in the Challenger Division, setting the stage for a promising campaign in their PH Sport prepared Zephyr Buggy.
However, adversity struck on day 2 when a drive belt malfunction threatened to derail their progress. Undeterred, Brinkman and Moscatt changed the belt in less than 10 minutes and pressed on, only to encounter an even bigger challenge later in the day – breaking two drive shafts.
Dropping close to 50 minutes, Brinkman and Moscatt pulled the broken components out and replaced them with spares that they had in the car.
“We could just feel something odd in the drive, no noise. It was a bit odd and it didn’t seem to be pulling properly” said Brinkman at the evening bivouac. “Then we worked out there must be at least one broken axle, so we thought we’d put it in two wheel drive and there was nothing, so we knew it was two broken axles”.
“We shouldn’t have had two axles in the car”, Brinkman continued. “We only had two because of yesterday when it was really rough and we didn’t take one out. Lucky for us or we wouldn’t be here now!“
Undoubtedly a setback, the tenacious team faced further challenges on day 3 during the liaison to the stage, contending with persistent driveshaft issues that led to the breakage of two additional shafts. Despite their best efforts, the decision to withdraw from the rallies third stage became a necessity.
Team coordinator, Damien Dulenc was optimistic that a solution can be found. “We’ll get the car back to the Bivouac and work out what the problem is and do what ever we can to get them back into the rally”, he said. “The Dakar always throws up challenges, but we are confident that we will get to the bottom of the issue”.
In the true spirit of Dakar, Brinkman and Moscatt are not bowing out. Determined to overcome the setbacks, they have announced their intent to rejoin the rally, showcasing the indomitable spirit that defines the Dakar competitors.
The team expresses thanks for the continuing support received from fans, sponsors, and the Dakar community.
“It’s fantastic to have the support of our fans, family and supporters back home in Australia”, said Moscatt. “We have had so many messages spurring us on and encouraging us. It’s amazing how many people follow this event and to have an Aussie team to get behind is generating even more interest. It always surprises me how many people follow us from 14,000km away.”
The next few days promise an inspiring comeback story as Brinkman and Moscatt resume their quest for success in this grueling motorsport challenge.
For further updates and information, please follow Glenn Brinkman and Dale Moscatt on their official social media channels and stay tuned for more from the 2024 Dakar Rally.
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