Tuesday 19, November 2024
The “Pink Elephant” Brings Hope to Dakar 2025
The 2025 edition of Dakar For Life, a project that combines the competitive spirit of the Dakar Rally with the social mission of the Canary Foundation Walk for Life, has wrapped up its tour in the Canary Islands before heading to Saudi Arabia. Known as the “Pink Elephant” of the desert, this joint initiative aims to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection for both women and men through the passion for sports and personal resilience.
The launch event in Gran Canaria, held at Finca Canarias Aloe Vera on November 14th, brought together key figures in this solidarity effort. Among them were Brigitte Gypen, president of the foundation, and Miguel Ángel Domínguez, president of the Canary Federation of Automobilism. Crucial allies like the TH Trucks – Rally Team and Laboratorios Ximart also attended.
Brigitte Gypen shared her gratitude and excitement about the project’s impact:
“Dakar For Life is the perfect example of how sports can serve as a vehicle for raising awareness and supporting those affected by breast cancer. It’s an honor to work alongside Rafa Lesmes, who has taken our message to new horizons.”
Miguel Ángel Domínguez also emphasized the importance of the initiative:
“Having a team represent the Canary Islands in the Dakar Rally while carrying a message of hope is a source of pride. This joint effort shows what can be achieved when sports and solidarity come together.”
Rafa Lesmes, the project’s driver and ambassador, expressed his enthusiasm:
“This project motivates us not only in sports but also in raising awareness about a disease that remains underrecognized in men. I’m grateful for the support we’ve received at every stop on our tour of the Canary Islands.”
The event also served as the official send-off for the Dakar Classic-winning truck. After its stops in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, it will depart for Saudi Arabia from Barcelona.
Dakar For Life 2025, an alliance of sports and solidarity, continues to prove that together, we can achieve extraordinary goals.
Next stop: the Saudi Arabian dunes!