Paladin driver Xu Lang continued his gliding in the desert, completing stage six of the Dakar Rally with four hours 39 minutes and 35 seconds.

He has also moved from 50th in the overall standings the day before to 44th on Thursday.

Teammate Zhou Yong also climbed five positions ahead to 113th.

Another Chinese driver, Men Guangyuan for Mitsubishi, also improved a lot, from 94th to 76th on the overall standings.

Veteran Lu Ningjun for Nissan also completed stage six. He is currently placed 85th on the ladder.

(CRI English January 6, 2006)