One-two for Team HRC in the first stage of the China Grand Rally

Joan Barreda laid down the gauntlet in the China Grand Rally, becoming the first leader as the race kicked off in Bao Tou, Inner Mongolia. The Spanish Team HRC rider – on his maiden outing in the Chinese Rally – was accompanied by teammate Michael Metge, who posted runner-up spot.

 It was a dream start for the Team HRC duo in the China Grand Rally, with the pair dominating the first 81.20 kilometre stage without any real threats. Barreda and Metge, both astride Honda CRF450 RALLYs, made short work of the sand and dunes of the Chinese desert. Joan Barreda, chalking up a time of 1 hour 22 minutes and 55 seconds, marked the fasted time of the day some 49 seconds ahead of Team HRC partner Michael Metge. The third place rider came home some eleven minutes adrift of the day’s winner.

 Tomorrow’s stage will feature a timed special stage of 241.79 kilometres as part of a total 446.75 kilometre stint from the bivouac in Bao Tou to that of Wulate Houqi.