Desert Challenge sets pace in World Cup

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Sulayem, chairman of the organising committee, made the pledge while formally introducing Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority as a new sponsor of the Desert Challenge during an official press conference at Dubai International Marine Club, the rally's permanent HQ.

It was during the pre-event press conference 12 months ago that Sulayem announced a major investment in technology which resulted in the Desert Challenge setting new standards in competitor safety.

The innovative tracking system introduced last year to provide a new level of security for competitors was so successful that it has since been adopted by all other events in the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup, and by the Dakar Rally.

'The Iritrack system was used in full for the first time in last year's Desert Challenge,' said Sulayem. 'It allows us to monitor the progress of every competitor as they cross the most remote areas and we're working with the designers to develop it further.'

'While competitor safety remains a major priority, we'll continue to seek new ways to develop the event and it's vital that we enjoy the backing of sponsors such as Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority who want to see the rally grow and set the highest standards.'

The UAE Desert Challenge is also sponsored by Nissan Middle East - with the Nissan Patrol the rally's official car - Dubai Waterfront, an 81 million square metre development by Nakheel, Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, ADNOC, Emarat and Inmarsat, providers of satellite communications.

The Desert Challenge is co-sponsored by Oasis Water, Al Noor Hospital, Konica Minolta, ANLONITS, Messina Line and Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina, the official hotel.

Using the advanced satellite communications platform provided by Inmarsat, the Iritrack system is a complete onboard method of tracking by satellite with world coverage. Fitted on every car, bike and truck, it works in the most remote areas on earth and is a vital breakthrough for organisers of cross country rallies.

Competitors plot their course using GPS equipment which guides them between set positions on the route. Until recently cross country rally vehicles were fitted with 'beacon' devices which had to be set off if a competitor got lost or injured.

Rescue teams homing in on the signal then flew or drove to their aid. But the system broke down if an injured competitor was unable to turn on the device, and search teams could spend hours locating them. 'We can now follow competitors every inch of the way, and our rally control team can see if someone is getting lost or running into trouble, and use a direct voice link to talk to them,' said Sulayem.

'We also have built-in systems which automatically tell us if someone gets into trouble and needs assistance. We can immediately send out a rescue team instead of waiting for a beacon to be set off.' The saving in time and rescue resource is significant and can be crucial in an emergency.