The sun sets on the Cannebiere, from the top of the St Antoine quarter in Marseilles, the view is breathtaking. In the Background the Mediterranean, with the frioul islands and the Chateau D’If, the “coulee verte” a long strip of green slicing the sand colored city is today offering some passion. As spectators assemble in their hundreds around the track, so as to catch a glimpse of the evening “Super Special” of the Rallye de Tunisie 2008.

On this highly technical ascension over 2 Km in length, full of rhythm changes, Piloting becomes a talent. Friday after the crossing it’s the Spaniard Oscar Hernandez (Tot Curses) on his bike, and Krszystof Holowczyc (Nissan Pickup) who will open the race on Tunisian soil.

Still fighting strong Holek, ex European Rally Champion, the polish competitor Krszystof Holowczyc has lost nothing in speed and steering wheel control. Almost effortlessly the pilot of the Nissan Pickup team offered himself a pole position, in the process ripping off his left rear view mirror. Not far behind: the BMW X5 driven by the Brazilian Paolo Nobre, and  the russian Novitskiy,in Mistubishi. Then the Proto Dessoude 05 of Christian Lavieille.

Tot Curses Start on a High. Arriving in force on the vieux port with a massive team, they were first in the bike Category. Oscar Hernandez stole the show on his Yahama 450. Followed by Olivier Pain (Yamaha 450) and Michel Marchini (Yamaha 450). Thierre Bethys (Honda 450) although amongst the favorites ended seventh.

Bowler are well represented in the Rallye de Tunisie, with fourteen followers, a race within a race, the Amaral brothers from Portugal leading the way so far, followed by their compatriots Carapeta and Corticades. Unfortunately for Patrick Combe and Bruno Davoust who got there last, rolling over just meters from the finish line. They were nicely put back on all four wheels by some comprehensive supporters and promptly finished the race.

And Ludivine….. she impressed many on her KTM 690, a prudent 26th, first woman, keeping safe before the African leg.

They’re back ! The 4X4 Panda team, first seen two years ago on the Dakar, driven by Miki Biasion and Bruno Saby, bought over by Alfredo Merelli, the “tiny Italian is participating on their second African Experience.