Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge: Podium for Sergei Remennik!
After outstanding performances in the European Rally Championship behind the wheel of a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X in the ERC-2 category and participation in the Russian Championship rounds in an Oreca Suzuki Swift R4, Sergei Remennik has expanded his expertise to a new discipline. In 2022, he secured a victory in his inaugural event, the Baja Russia Northern Forest, a unique competition in the world of rally-raids.
The debut baja for the crew took place in February. It was notable for being the only stage of the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Bajas held on a snow-ice surface, rather than the usual dirt and sand tracks for rally-raids. Despite his lack of experience, Sergei Remennik did not hesitate to face the unfamiliar conditions. He even engaged in a dispute with Anastasia Nifontova, a highly experienced rally-raid competitor. This resulted in him being awarded first place in the SSV category in a Can-Am Maverick X3.
However, this was merely the start. Despite the absence of a structured training program, Remennik maintained his driving skills by participating in karting competitions, where he was part of the same team as his son, Mikhail. Remennik now faces a new challenge: an event on the desert sands.
Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge — New Chapter in Career
The Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge commenced in 2023 and has rapidly established itself as a significant event in the global motorsport calendar, attracting competitors from across the Gulf region. The series will comprise four rounds, scheduled to take place between October 2024 and April 2025. Each round comprises a course of over 100 kilometres of sandy tracks, where competitors perform in a variety of vehicles, including cars, SSVs, motorcycles and quads. The key differentiator from traditional rally-raids is that each driver completes a 25-kilometre track, undertaking five laps without a co-driver. Drivers must rely solely on their ability to navigate the route, which is marked with flags and checkpoints.
Sergei Remennik was joined in the SxS Pro standings by Maxim Deykin, Sergey Karyakin and Alexei Shmotev. All drivers completed the event to a high standard, having fully completed the qualifying distance. The track in Tilal Swaihan presented a challenging combination of speed and treachery. It demanded not only the application of driving skills and the ability to navigate the challenging sand surface, but also the demonstration of competent control of the vehicle. Remennik was therefore placed in second position in his category.
SxS Pro Standings Results:
- Maxim Deykin — 5 laps, 1:59:38,137 min
- Sergei Remennik — 5 laps, +10:28,244 min
- Sergey Karyakin — 5 laps, +11:04,904 min
- Alexei Shmotev — 5 laps, +20:07,403 min
The success of this venture was made possible by the technical expertise of the BIG RED RACING team, which has recently expanded its operations into the motorsport sector. Previously, the company’s activities were limited to tourist trips on the sand. However, it is now pursuing a clear strategy of professional racing development.
What’s Next?
The success in Abu Dhabi proves that Remennik is meticulously preparing and adapting to new conditions. He continues to excel in his field, with many promising opportunities on the horizon. Participation in all events of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge and a foray into the World Cup round are planned!
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