Paris Dakar Stage 44 to Sidi Akhfennir

Stage 44 of 60, day 52 of 71: 137 km, 545m, 4:20, 147 shifts, ave speed 31.5, max speed 61.8

Lots of dew in the night and camping in red desert sand meant there were a lot of dirty tents packed up in the morning. After breakfast we headed out, encouraged by the wind direction predictions and shorter ride.

It was a quick and easy 20 km to the first town, Tan-Tan. We had drinks and pastries there, then rode another 20 km to the coast. The town of El Ouatia was a little off the route but we explored and found a nice café for more drinks and snacks.

As we left and turned southwest down the coast, the true power of the tailwind hit! It was glorious cruising easily at over 40 kph. We went to lunch at a little over 80 km like that, but arrived not hungry. Still we forced ourselves to not disappoint Ype.

Then it was another 50 km of the same to camp. We ended up riding our own paces, me a little slower. I saw where the camp was supposed to be but it was deserted. WhatsApp told me it had been repositioned to behind a mosque in the next town, Sidi Akhfennir. I found everyone there in a rocky parking lot, with many busily upgrading to hotel rooms. I had to dry my tent so decided to camp. It dried quickly then I rode over to another hotel with Michael to use his shower. I ended up getting a room myself since it was under €15. I think just the hot shower and washing my clothes was worth that! I relaxed and called Katie and wrote this up.

We walked along the beach back to camp for dinner. It was a big burrito celebration of Jan’s birthday! Just like in 2019, Jan sponsored the drinks, in this case red wine. Since I sat at his table I got lots!

We also have another Rider Profile today. Today’s rider is Simo Ruuska, who I rode the Balkan Boulevard with in 2022.

How old are you Simo?

As I tell my grandchildren I’m 14 because 6 and 8 makes 14. I’m just a big kid.

Where are you from?

Originally Finland, now living in Melbourne, Australia

How much of this crazy adventure are you doing?

The whole enchilada.

Tell us about your bike

Ita a Cannondale Super Evo 6 2021 HD. The gears are Shimano Dura Ace DI2, 52×34 and 11-34 on the back. I’m running 28mm tyres for the first time. Used to run 23s.

What inspired you to sign up for Paris Dakar?

The mystique!

Do your friends think you’re crazy?

Nah they just think I’m a big kid in search of adventure.

What else do you want people to know about you?

I like dogs, skiing and camping. I used to be a high ropes instructor. I like to just get out there and give it a go mate! That applies to life!