Race to Dakar

In January 2006, 230 people raced in trucks, cars, and motorbikes from Lisbon to Dakar in the 28th annual Dakar rally—the most challenging race in existence. Taking part was a team of three bikers—Matt Hall, Simon Pavey, and actor and bike nut Charley Boorman. After his celebrated trip round the world with Ewan McGregor, documented in Long Way Round, Charley was keen for another challenge. Racing in the Dakar had always been a dream of his, and so it was the obvious choice for a new adventure. Supported by Australian champion biker Simon Pavey and experienced British biker Matt Hall, Charley attempted to do what many professional bikers have failed to do—to successfully compete in the Dakar rally. His book details his extraordinary adventures and those of his fellow bikers, and also explores the history of this most dramatic and romantic of races. From Portugal through Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, and Senegal, it also provides a unique look at the countries hosting the rally. It is an exhilarating and fitting sequel to Long Way Round.

Waterstone's Books Quarterly

The history of the rally and Boorman's own personal experience of this great endurance test makes for an exhilarating read.

Charley Boorman is an actor who has appeared in such films as Excalibur and The Emerald Forest. He took part in Long Way Round, a motorcycle trip from London to New York via Europe and Asia with his good friend, actor Ewan McGregor in 2004. This was recorded, then later made into a successful television series, book, and DVD.