Sue Mead, an off-road racing journalist with a passion for adventure, and Dakar veteran Darren Skilton made history at the grueling Dakar Rally, driving a modified Ford Raptor across some of the most unforgiving terrain on Earth. The rally, known for pushing both machines and drivers to their limits, was a perfect showcase for the capabilities of the Raptor, Ford’s high-performance off-road pickup.
Starting in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the duo embarked on a punishing journey that would span over 9,500 kilometers across deserts, mountains, and salt flats, facing unpredictable weather and fierce competition. The 2011 edition of the Dakar Rally was particularly brutal, with competitors battling not only the challenging course but also torrential rains and extreme heat.
The Raptor, meticulously prepared for the race, was entered in the Open Production Class, a category that allowed for factory-built vehicles with modifications for rally use. Throughout the race, the Raptor’s performance in the harsh conditions proved its mettle, handling everything from deep sand dunes to rocky mountain paths with relative ease, thanks in part to its powerful V8 engine and specially tuned suspension.
As Sue Mead and Darren Skilton drove the Dakar Raptor over the podium in Buenos Aires, the significance of their victory was monumental. The team clinched first place in the Open Production Class, a proud moment not only for the team but also for American motorsports. Thousands of spectators cheered them on as team members Troy Johnson, Dan Moore, and Chris Collard joined Sue and Darren to celebrate their hard-earned victory in the pouring rain. The win was historic, as it marked the first-ever Class Win by an American woman at the Dakar Rally.
Sue Mead’s victory shattered barriers and paved the way for more female competitors in the world of off-road racing, while Darren Skilton’s expertise helped guide the team through one of the toughest races on the planet. Together, they proved that the spirit of endurance, combined with the raw power of the Ford Raptor, could overcome even the most extreme challenges of the Dakar Rally.
This victory wasn’t just a win for the team, it was a moment of triumph for the entire U.S. off-road community, showcasing the Raptor’s unparalleled performance and the resilience of its drivers on one of motorsport’s biggest stages.
Source: Dakar Ford Raptor Facebook
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