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The Opel Dakar Team, running on 235/85 R16 Open Country M/T-R tires, take the start of the Silk Way Rally in Moscow.

The competitors embarked from the Luzhniki Olympic Stadium, via the ceremonial start in Red square, on a gruelling 15 day race crossing three countries. The racers will encounter every possible terrain before arriving in Beijing on July 24. Sand, gravel, mud and vegetation covered trails face them on their marathon 10.000 km journey. The first special was a 2km course at the Kazan Arena, a specially prepared course giving spectators a grandstand view of the race cars in action. The real racing begins on stage 2 with a 136K special on the way to Ufa.

Balázs Szalay, with co-pilot László Bunkoczi tackle the race in their Opel Mokka, equipped with Toyo Tires. The tires were selected for their robust construction and high mileage, even in race conditions, giving the team reliability in extreme conditions.

The team have an uphill battle to stay close to the top teams. Leading the way are the Peugeot team with drivers, Stephane Peterhansel, the current Dakar winner and former World Rally champion, Sebastian Loeb. Former Dakar winners, X-Raid team also participate with a pair of their well prepared Minis, making it a challenge for Balázs even before the start commenced.

Follow the rally at: www.silkwayrally.com