URUMQI, May 27 (Xinhua) -- As the Taklimakan Rally charged into its sixth special stage (SS6) on Tuesday, competitors not only battled for position but also took time to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes as the rally entered its final stretch.
"The scenery along the 288-kilometer stretch was stunning today -- riverbeds, poplars, and desert. These are the conditions I love the most," said Abas Ghapar of the Bayi Steel Team from northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.
The Chongqing Hoto Factory Team once again made a strong impression in the motorcycle category. Czech rider Martin Michek and Lithuanian Arunas Gelazninkas, now firmly established in the leading pack.
In the car category, Liu Yangui and navigator Chen Feng of Shaanxi Yunxiang Club continued their strong form, emerging as top title contenders.
"Our goal isn't just to win a single stage," Chen said. "With only four stages left, we believe we have a real shot at the overall title if we stay focused."
Still, the final outcome remains uncertain. The grueling N39 Stages -- a full desert stretches widely regarded as the rally's toughest -- lies ahead and are expected to play a decisive role.
"That's the real battle," Liu said. "It will be the ultimate test."
The rally resumes Wednesday with SS7, a newly introduced 82-kilometer stage in Yecheng County, Kashgar Prefecture, featuring a mix of desert and Gobi terrain. Enditem
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