Edwin van Ginkel not going to Dakar Rally 2014: "Neck hernia"

EDERVEEN – Edwin van Ginkel will not participate in the Dakar Rally. The Scherpenzeler made a last-minute decision. Van Ginkel is withdrawing for medical reasons. "After extensive examination, it has been found that I have a herniated disc in my neck. According to the doctors, it is not responsible to participate in the Dakar Rally. I cannot take the risk by, for example, driving with painkillers or an injection. I am very disappointed. It is a big blow, but it is what it is."

Edwin van Ginkel experienced arm pain last week. "The doctor initially thought it was a triceps strain. Later it became clear that it was a herniated disc in the neck. That injury needs to heal with rest."

On Tuesday afternoon, Van Ginkel had an appointment at the Meander hospital in Amersfoort. "The photos showed the severity of the injury. I also feel that it's not right. Based on that, after consulting with the neurologist, I definitively decided not to start in the Dakar Rally."

"Too late for a replacement"
Edwin van Ginkel was set to make his debut as a race driver in the GINAF Rally Power team. "I was really looking forward to this Dakar Rally. For us, it was a dream that seemed to be coming true." The 41-year-old Edwin van Ginkel, just like his brother Wuf van Ginkel and Jos Smink, was to drive a race truck. The GINAF Rally Power formation now consists of two race drivers. "It's too late to send a good replacement to South America," said Edwin. "We will drive the Dakar Rally with two crews."

Depending on his recovery, Edwin van Ginkel may still head to South America. "First I need to see how the recovery progresses. If it's responsible, I might join the team later during the rally, for example on the rest day. For now, however, I will stay home."

Due to Edwin van Ginkel's withdrawal, navigator Herman Vaanholt also remains in the Netherlands. Mechanic Emiel Megens is already in Argentina. He flew to South America last Sunday with the first group from GINAF Rally Power and GINAF Rally Service.