In the fourth stage of the Dakar Rally, things finally started to fall into place for Tim and Tom Coronel. They had to start the stage to Al Ula far back in the field with all its consequences. But the Century CR7 performed well, with the best classification thus far this rally as a result.
“The first 60 kilometers were nothing but rocks,” Tom looks back on the stage of 415 kilometer in length. “And since we started so far back, there were already deep ruts and plenty of fesh fesh. We had one flat tire but, after a quick change we didn’t have any other issues. The car didn’t flinch. Okay, the windshield wiper on my side is broken. I can’t see a thing in the dust, but if that’s all, I’ll take it.”
Men on the moon
Out of the dust, the brothers were treated to a beautiful view. “The scenery was so cool, it really felt like we were on the moon. If the moon looks like this, I totally get why people are fascinated by it. It was just awesome.”
Tim agrees with his brother. “It was a beautiful drive. We were careful on the rocks to preserve the tires. You really want to make it to the finish in good shape. But after the rocks, there were so many different landscapes. I remember we’ve driven this route before. It was with The Beast a few years ago, but we drove it in reverse back then.”
Marathon stage
The fourth stage marked the first part of the marathon stage, which means that all the competitors are completely on their own in the bivouac of Al Ula: ‘We noticed that we only brought one tent with us, but it’s not going to be a cozy night with Tim!”, Tom laughs. “The bivouac is basically made up of six large tents. So the small tent is for Tim and I’ve found a corner in one of the big tents with a little mattress, so I will try to get some sleep there.” Tim adds: “For me, Dakar has really started now. Especially now that we’re all in the same bivouac, it feels much more like Dakar compared to the big bivouacs where everyone is busy with their own teams.”
After claiming the 29th spot in the fourth stage, Tim has a good feeling for the second part of the marathon stage on Thursday. “It’ll be similar to today. This was a great day, so more days like this please! We’re really in sync now and want to keep steadily moving up. Maybe we can even take advantage of others’ mistakes.”
Coronel Dakar Team is supported by: LKQ, MPM, Toolspecial, Optimal, ERU, Roordink Bedrijfswagens, Efulfilment.eu, Mascot Workwear, 4Brands, BS Forklifts, JBL, Keukenwarenhuis, DHG, Serengeti, Hella, Brondool, Chassis Parts, FEBO, MyFMS, Frits Dijk, Apple King, SuperB, P1, Copernica
