Translated from:

http://www.automobilsport.com/dakar-2009-eric-vigouroux-robby-gordo...

Eric Vigouroux joined Robby Gordon, driving a Hummer


Replacing the American Ronn Bailey, unavailable for health reasons, Eric Vigouroux finally participate in the next Dakar 'Argentina-Chile "on a 2009 Hummer Team Dakar USA. After a test session, very positive, Robby Gordon has agreed to with Ronn Bailey to entrust the wheel of his second Hummer to Eric, who will co-pilot as usual by the faithful Alexandre Winocq.

"My relationship with Robby Gordon date of the Dakar 2006, when after his retirement, he had offered his Toyo Tires. . This has enabled our Trophy Truck not only finished the race, but also won the category "Open," says Eric. Since then, I moved to the United States, which allowed me to maintain regular contact with Robby and Ronn. Also when it was necessary to find a new driver, they naturally thought of me. It is an honor because Robby knows a lot of drivers in the U.S. including some very wealthy, but none of the Dakar n'al'expérience including sand. » "

Then everything went very quickly "suit". The partners of Eric, GM Racing and Toyo Tires are also of the USA team Dakar Robby Gordon. . When test driving the Hummer two-wheel drive, Eric was quickly felt at ease. From there, his main desire was to run with his usual teammate, Alexandre Winocq. « "Our combination works well and I think that is one of the keys to success in this context where everything is new," says Eric.

"This is an extraordinary story because for the second time since 1997, I had not planned to participate in Dakar following a very busy year 2008. . I was fully prepared to accept this proposal, which was formalized on Christmas Eve. Commenting on the strategy of Dakar, the boss is obviously Robby Gordon. Our goal is to do everything to bring him to victory.

For my part, I tested with some ambition, but also a good dose of humility. With Alex, we discover a new car, a new team and a new field, but the latter applies to all competitors. We shall, therefore, reasonable distance Robby while targeting the places of honor. At the end of the test, all the efforts of the team will focus on the car in the best position by Robby own will, "concludes Eric.

"Finally I would like to send a special thought to Ronn Bailey. . Ronn when I knew that I had received in my structure for his first Dakar in 2005. Since we have always entraidés on many tests. We will be keen to honor him at the wheel of the No. 324 Hummer that will be the colors of his company Vanguard Security! » "

Recall that the Dakar 2009 will take place from 3 to 18 January, Argentina and Chile. Departure and arrival will be held in Buenos Aires, while the rest day will be held in Valparaiso, along the Pacific Ocean, January 10. Fourteen steps are planned, with more than 5 600 km timed, and the special look as difficult as usual!