New Zealand’s Chris Birch has taken over the lead at the 44th annual Roof of Africa extreme enduro in Lesotho.

Birch – who won this race outright in 2008, 2009 and last year – was fifth overall after the first day but it now on target to make it a record four Roof of Africa wins in a row.

Britain’s Graham Jarvis is running second.

Meanwhile, the other members of Kiwi contingent among the 233 competitors are also making an impact at the event with Mike Skinner now up to 10th, Mitchell Nield 11th, Karl Power 13th, Chris Power 29th and Phil Cheater 35th, with all the New Zealanders on target to win gold.

Conditions continue to be very dry and dusty and, with no control checks, the riding is non-stop all day, for up to seven hours.

© Photo by Andy McGechan, www.BikesportNZ.com