From the Dakar Rally straight to WOŚP (Grand Orchestra of Christmas Charity)

Each sportsman has a trophy or another sport souvenir in their collection that bears particular significance. For Rafał Sonik, one of such major souvenirs is the quad that he debuted in the Dakar Rally on, where he secured a third place. That was the beginning of his march to the top. Now, the first Polish rider to win the Dakar Rally decided to donate this historic vehicle to WOŚP (Grand Orchestra of Christmas Charity).

In January, Rafał Sonik will face the wilderness of South America for the ninth time, and once again he will carry the WOŚP’s heart on his helmet. One day after the competition in the capital city of Argentina comes to its end, Poland will see the 25th final of this world-famous charity event. On this occasion, the Kraków-based champion decided to donate his 2009 quad, the one that marks the beginning of his fight for the Bedouin, to be auctioned.

‘WOŚP is always with me during the Dakar Rally and also in other World Cup rallies. I carry it on my helmet and I support it with all my heart, though at a distance. We organise fund-raisers at the bivouac and we donate various sport souvenirs for auctioning. This year, I wanted to do something special. So I decided to donate the quad  that was the beginning of my way to the top in the most difficult rally of the world. It is really unique,’ said Sonik.

The 2009 quad is Yamaha Raptor 700, which has been thoroughly remodelled by the service team working with the Kraków-based master rider. The frame is strengthened, it has a navigation paneel installed, it is equipped with additional gas tanks, and the entire electric installation is replaced. Apart form the engine, almost each and every element was tuned. This is why the quad was able to ride at up to 150 km/h.

The 2009 Raptor is being auctioned online until 17 January. You can see the auction at: http://aukcje.wosp.org.pl/dakarowy-quad-rafala-sonika-yamaha-raptor-700-i3865899

The money collected during the 25th final of WOŚP will be spent to save the health and lives of children being treated at general paediatric wards and to ensure commendable medical care to seniors.