Pascal Gentil signalled the start of the first official leg, just before sunrise this
morning. Having arrived during the night accompanied by Belgian actor François Vicentelli,
the world Taekwondo champion didn't deny himself any pleasure. Hanging
off the vehicles, flag in hand, he called the start for each new line
of competitors...
Wide smiles, cheerful cries, revving engines: the Gazelles were clearly thrilled to be heading back out this morning for the first official leg of the Rallye.
Up since 4:00 am,
by breakfast-time the girls are ready for battle, maps spread before
them, concentrating on the task at hand. The competitors seem calm as
they face the day's challenge.