Branch impresses ahead of Dakar Rally
Kabelo Boranabi | Friday October 11, 2019 10:57
The ‘Kalahari Ferrari’ had a rocky start to the rally as he finished 14th after stage one, then staged great on the onwards to finish inside the top 10.
Branch sailed through the last three stages but could not catch up with the leading pack. The rally attracted the world’s best riders as American, Andrew Short, finished first with reigning Dakar Rally champion settling for the fourth spot.
Through his Facebook page, Branch expressed joy after posting his best ever performance at the rally.
“(I am) really happy with how my race went. (I) achieved some big personal goals and learnt so much, I am happy with my pace and now forward to Dakar 2020,” he said.
Rallye du Maroc is considered as the short version of the Dakar 2020. The next event on the calendar is the 2020 Dakar Rally, which will take place in Saudi Arabia.
This will be the first time that the race is held in the Middle East, the third region to host the world’s toughest offroad race.
Branch returns to the Dakar Rally for the second consecutive year. In his debut, early this year, Branch finished on an overall 13th position while winning the best rookie award.
He became the second Motswana to compete at the prestigious event after Vincent Crosbie.