Order is returning to the order...
McRae crashes, withdraws from Dakar
TSN.ca Staff
1/5/2005
Defending champion Stephane Peterhansel captured the sixth stage of the Dakar rally on Wednesday while former world rally champion Colin McRae was forced to withdraw following a serious crash.
Peterhansel set the fastest time in the 492 kilometre stage from Smara to Zouerat, finishing almost six minutes ahead of Hiroshi Masuoka, who lost three hours yesterday with transmission problems. It was quite a turnaround for Peterhansel, who fell well off the pace Tuesday due to three punctures.
Bruno Saby, who placed third on Wednesday, has moved into the overall lead ahead of Luc Alphand, who finished fourth in Wednesday's stage.
World rally champion Colin McRae, who started the day in first place, crashed heavily 410 kilometres into the stage, flipping his Nissan pickup onto its side. McRae and co-driver Tina Thorner were flown to a medical center in Zouerate.
McRae is said to be suffering from double vision while Thorner is complaining of a sore back. McRae is expected to return to Scotland on Thursday.
Robby Gordon, who has two stage wins under his belt already, also rolled his VW Touareg. While he managed to get the vehicle uprighted and moving again, he has encountered additional mechanical problems and there's no word if he has retired or is working on the problem.