Sara Jugla enters Dakar Rally 2021 in Bike category as rookie rider with huge amounts of drive, determination and courage to race the world’s toughest 12 Stage Rally.
Qualifying took place with Sara taking the win at 2020 Andalucia Rally Women’s class in October, followed by 8 days of training in Morocco completing final preparations for Dakar race in Saudi Arabia starting January 3rd 2021.
With 6 years racing National off-road competitions, taking vice- Champion in France sand racing in 2017 and 2019, Sara held long-term goal of racing extreme World Rallies, targeting The Dakar.
Sara: ‘My registration for the DAKAR 2021 is especially due to the fact that I met the right person at the right time. This person is Pascal Dubos, owner of KTM Baïnes Motos in Eysines, FRANCE. He offered me a collaboration and then I made every effort to make this dream come true. For years I watched this race on television and today I find myself on the other side. It’s an amazing adventure’.
Taking on board extreme challenge to race The Dakar, with only 2 other women racing in Bike category: Laia Sanz and Sara Garcia, Sara has put all fear of unknown challenges in perspective, having banked necessary experience of completing off-road events. Finishing Andalucia Rally in 30 hours, 43 minutes and 15 seconds on board her KTM Replica, Sara heads to Dakar well equipped to race amongst Baines Rally Team of 4 riders and 2 mechanics.
‘Yes I was racing Andalucia Rally to qualify. It was my first one and my goal was to learn as much as possible and finish this Rally. Mission accomplished! My challenge was to discover the world of Rally Raid. I was very satisfied with my motorbike with which a learned to ride and also with my mechanic assistance’.
‘Indeed, the DAKAR 2021 promises to be harder than what I have been able to do until today in my career. But the physical challenge and the surpassing yourself are really close to my heart. Also representing women in this huge competition is very important for me. I’m ready to race ! 
Dakar Rally January 3rd to 15th.
Words: Sharon Cox.
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