Several decorative Case IH, Claas, JCB, John Deere, Fendt, Massey Ferguson, Steyr and Zetor tractors took part in the first Lithuanian ‘Dakar’ tractor race. There were also a handful of Ukrainian-made XTZ T-150Ks.
Organised by the farmers group of Agro Dakar, and advised by Lithuanians who have participated in professional Dakar races, the first event of its kind attracted over 30 teams and was watched by around 10,000 spectators.
Covering a total distance of around 48km, the route stretched across two Lithuanian districts – Kaišiadorys and Elektrėnai. Participants were not allowed to enter the race with tractors purchased with EU support, and Russian and Belarussian tractors were excluded from the event
Mantas Liepuonius and Laurynas Jelinskas from the Dojus dream team were first to cross the finish line in one hour, seven minutes and 12 seconds in the new tractor category with a John Deere 6M.250. In second spot was the Red Storm team with a Massey 9S.425. Third to cross the line was a Case IH Optum 270 CVX.
First to cross the finish line in the Turbo class (tractors up to 30km/hr) were Vytautas Bartkus and Indrė Bartkienė with a Case IH tractor, while second and third places were secured by the two XTZ T150-Ks.
There was also a category for 40km/hr tractors. Rimantas Kleiva and Laurynas Kleiva won this with a John Deere 6195M. A John Deere 6170R secured second spot, and third to cross the finish line was a Case IH Puma 150.
The tractors were equipped with measurement devices to ensure that they did not exceed the speed limit. A number of teams were penalized with penalty minutes. Pictures: Gediminas Stanišauskas
For more up-to-date farming news click here and subscribe now to profi and save 47%.
