(MENAFN- Emirates News Agency (WAM)) Sheikh Khalid bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Abu Dhabi Racing Chairman, came in 5th overall on the first day of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. Al Qassimi set a blistering pace early on in leg 1 (SS1) but lost the opportunity to lead after his car got stuck in the sand for just over 6 minutes.

Sheikh Khalid opted to be the 2nd driver to tackle the Liwa dunes in SS1 (the 'Yas Marina Circuit stage') and completed the 262.33km stage in 3:23:43.0.

Al Qassimi said, "We were unlucky today, but overall I am encouraged by today's experience, apart from getting stuck, our pace was very competitive and my experience in both MERC and WRC has been very helpful, particularly when it comes to the performance of the car. Each leg is different and requires its own strategy, so for now I am just focusing on tomorrow's leg."