Javier Vélez and Mateo Moreno are back, tackling the Saudi Arabian competition in the lightweight vehicle division.
Simply reaching the starting line of the Dakar Rally is a monumental achievement; completing it is a legendary feat.
Renowned as the world’s most grueling endurance contest, this event presents competitors with extreme challenges: scorching heat, biting cold, relentless winds, and a treacherous journey across dunes, canyons, and sheer cliffs. Two Colombian drivers will confront the brutal conditions of the 2022 edition, kicking off this Saturday. This year’s race boasts an approximately 8,000-kilometer route (4,300 kilometers of timed stages), encompassing 12 grueling stages across Saudi Arabia, a nation in Western Asia hosting the race for the third time.
Representing their nation, Javier Vélez and Mateo Moreno will contend in the T3 class – the lightweight vehicle category.
This duo previously participated in the 2021 Saudi Arabian event. However, a setback on stage three – as race officials noted – resulted in front-wheel drive failure, forcing them to withdraw from the competition. They persevered, completing the route in “Experience mode”.
Vélez reflects, “The Dakar presented formidable challenges, notably lengthy connecting stages, yet the organization was flawless. We encountered many rocky sections, severely impacting suspensions and tires, causing significant hardship.” He adds, “Despite retiring, we aimed to finish, even in Experience mode, and we succeeded, a satisfying outcome.” To further hone their skills and accumulate mileage, the pair participated in the Rally of Morocco.
Moreno, hailing from Antioquia, holds the distinction of being the first Colombian to participate and finish the Dakar motorcycle category in 2013. After a hiatus, a 2015 accident occurred, but he successfully completed the challenge in 2017, securing 74th place. He states, “The Dakar tests you daily. You must be a navigator, mechanic, and skilled at vehicle repair. We’re thrilled to return. Our primary aim? Finishing the rally.”