The 2018 Atacama Rally went on a furious note as Monster Energy Honda rider, Kevin Benavides takes home the victory topping up Toby Price and Pablo Quintanilla
The final 155-kilometre of extreme dirt and trails secures the victory for Benavides continuing his consistent performance throughout round three of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship in Chile.
Kevin Benavides said: “It has been a remarkable Atacama Rally for me. I won three stages and I felt very calm on the bike, which has worked perfectly throughout the event and I’m very happy. The team has worked very well and this has given me the tools needed for the victory. I was able to stay focused and was confident in myself. Winning here is not easy – Quintanilla is very strong. I’ve been looking forward to this victory for a long time and I’m really savouring it!”
On the other side, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Toby Price finished the race on an epic and notable achievement finishing second place in the fifth and final stage of the 2018 Atacama Rally. Price was edging as a real contender for the title tailing back Benavides the whole time. Toby Price said: “It was always going to be tough to make up enough time to take the win, especially over such a short stage and it was a good day.”
After the race, Toby Price talked about how the race has ended. “I’m happy with how the day and the whole rally gone. I set out at the beginning of the event to ride consistently and get back up to speed with the bike and the navigation and I think I have managed that. Hopefully I can deliver more of the same, stay fit and healthy and put in another good performance. To finish second after such a tricky race, is good and sets me up well for Argentina.”
Quintanilla and Benavides share World Championship points lead
The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rally ride Pablo Quintanilla still looked strong throughout the season and tied up with Kevin Benavides at the top ranking of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies Championship standings. Pablo Quintanilla finished third place at 2018 Atacama Rally.
