UAE Desert Challenge produces immense drama

Dubai Bikes caught fire, trucks smashed into cars, all kinds of machinery was destroyed, several competitors were injured and the weather was generally fantastic to say this year's Desert Challenge was "action packed" would be an enormous understatement.

From the moment Mark Coma crossed the finish line on the first day livid that his best friend, Cyril Despres, had ridden faster than him, the Desert Challenge was always going to be an emotionally-charged event.

There were many standout performances, but David McBride on a bike he "borrowed from a mate" achieved a lot.

His effort was particularly special not just because he finished sixth overall, right behind the top factory team riders.

But on the third day McBride stopped to help Khalid Khamis Ozair, the top Emirate rider who, at that time, was ahead of McBride in the standings, and gave him a chain link so Ozair could repair his bike, continue in the race.

There were many standout performances, but David McBride, on a borrowed bike, achieved a lot