Dakar: Alphand and Coma exchange machines at Lac Rose

MARC COMA AND LUC ALPHAND EXCHANGE MACHINES AT LAC ROSE

A day after winning the Lisboa Dakar 2006, one in the two-wheel category and the other in cars, the two Repsol racers exchanged wheels and views.

Less than 24 hours have elapsed since Marc Coma and Luc Alphand were crowned winners of the Dakar 2006 on the podium Sunday at Lac Rose. Their victory still hadn't quite sunk in when both Repsol racers stepped into the other's shoes for a while for a shot at a new driving experience.

Spain's Marc Coma began warming up in Nani Roma's car as co-pilot. He later took to the wheel of Luc Alphand's Mitsubishi, with Luc as an exceptional co-pilot, for some antics next to Lac Rose. You could tell he was having the time of his life, and took the Repsol Mitsubishi Montero for a thrilling joyride under the scrutiny of the Mitsubishi men. Marc, however, has not given much thought to auto racing, and hopes to add many more victories to his two-wheel tally.

Then came Luc Alphand's turn. Wearing Marc's "work clothes", he got on the KTM that brought the Lisboa Dakar 2006 victory to Coma yesterday. Luc's prowess on the endurance bike was evident as he careened around the surroundings of Lac Rose.

It was no doubt a fun experience for both, and a reward for their achievements; a considerate gesture from KTM and Mitsubishi toward these two great champions.

Marc Coma said "I'd like to thank Mitsubishi for the special chance they've given me. It's been a dream come true. It was fun to see Luc on my bike and for me to drive his car. I'm impressed with the way it felt, and surprised at how the suspension system chewed up the uneven ground. It doesn't feel as if you're driving that fast, but you are. I hope nobody thinks we're going to make the change - I like cars a lot but bikes are my thing. There's a lot of time ahead to think of switching over; once you take that step you can't go back. My victory is just starting to sink in, although it's going to take some time, and I'd like to start celebrating it with my family and friends".

Luc Alphand said "I could take on an easy rally on a bike, maybe in Dubai, but I don't think I could manage the Dakar. The bike really is dangerous and you need to drive extra carefully. I had a lot of fun on it today, though. It's been a great experience and equally awesome doing a co-drive with Marc".

-repsol-

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