The first runs of the 2023 Bolivia Speed Trials finally took place on the Salar de Uyuni, on Saturday, August 19. After shipping delays and weather complications, Runs officially got underway in Bolivia, though it was not without some drama.
The first run of the day by Richard Assen of Australia quickly turned wrong when the custom-built turbo-charged Hayabusa-powered machine got out of shape causing Assen to crash. The tumble prompted a medical evacuation, and Assen is now recovering at a hospital in Bolivia.
“This is the third land speed event we’ve had here in Bolivia, and the first time we have had to activate our local medical team,” said FIM Referee Ralph Bohnhorst, “We are pleased at the response time and efficiency of everyone involved and want to say thank you for the quick, professional teamwork of all.”
The well-being of Mr. Assen is on the minds of everyone at the event, and all are wishing him a speedy recovery.
The sole successful run of the day belonged to Jamie Williams, who piloted his turbo-charged Hayabusa-powered snowmobile to a one-way pass of 190 mph. Williams, aiming for speeds over 200 mph, technically qualified for a return run, but opted to start a new effort tomorrow.
“It went alright. It was pretty smooth,” said Williams. “I know we’ve had some problems in the morning, but we made it all work. We just need to update the ignition, the ECU, [solve] some suspension problems. It’s good stuff, the track is great. It’s awesome. We just gotta get all the stars lined up and we’ll do it again on Sunday.”
Story and photos by Jean Turner