Alphand and Coma win death-marred Dakar Rally
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-01-16 11:44

"I thought it was all over because we had been driving well," he told reporters. "We were constantly fighting with Peterhansel. It was a real fight."

Peterhansel himself later collided with a tree, losing precious time.

"From that moment onwards, I was in a position to win. I just had to keep it going because De Villiers was not far behind," Alphand said.

KTM riders dominated the top eight spots with Coma defeating French title holder Cyril Despres by one hour 13 minutes and 29 seconds.

Thousands of spectators were scattered around the lake and along the nearby beach to watch the racers go by. Young Senegalese boys dressed in traditional costumes played drums to entertain the crowds.

"I love the Dakar rally, because everyone is here," said 20-year old Mamadou, another spectator.