Terrorist Threats Foil 2008 Dakar Rally
The Dakar Rally is arguably the most grueling offroad competition in the world, a high profile, international event that draws some of the most talented motorcycle riders alive. Unfortunately, the Amaury Sport Association has announced that this year's Lisbon to Dakar event-- which was set to kick off this Saturday-- is being canceled.
Citing Al-Qaeda's murder of four French tourists last month, current political tensions, and direct threats from terrorist organizations, the ASO nonetheless asserts that "The Dakar is a symbol and nothing can destroy symbols."
Rally organizers are to be applauded for their desire to protect participants, fans and journalists from danger, but it is a sad day when something as good spirited as motorcycle racing is affected by terrorism.
Photo © van Oers J. / KTM
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Comments
You’re quite right - It is shame that it’s now affecting something as harmless and non political as a motor sports event. Despite the fact those bastards can call this a small victory, the loss of the Dakar Rally pales in comparison to what others have lost. If any one wonders why the armed forces of many countries are over there fighting these scumbags…..
A friends brother heads for Afghanistan with the Canadian forces in August…he’s terrified he’ll never see him again.
Put rocket launchers and guns on those puppies.
Actually I wouldn’t wish riding in that horrible situation on anyone.
I’m so proud of our troops. There fighting those bastards there, to keep us safe here. Things like this just remind me of how lucky we are to have them around.
A friend of mine (Nick Sanders) was going to follow the Dakar thru Morocco and Mauritania then go onto Mali (Timbuktu). They have decided to go for it anyway (29 bikes and 2 4×4 trucks with trailers). They intend to get info from any locals they meet. Just hoping they get no problems off ali baba and his dirty scum.
We all know there are just a few very crazy hateful people who are terrorizing the world and how these idiots expect anyone to side with them in their “struggle” beats me……….I guess if you live in a cave and have to eat rats then you sure don’t have a very “happy” outlook on the world………what a sad time for this planet!……..I still believe 90% of the citizens of this planet are honest and non violent…….lets not paint the whole world with one brush……just my thoughts