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Female competitors accept Finke Desert Race challenge

When the dust settles at the Finke Desert Race finish line in central Australia on Monday, 22 women are hoping to have completed the race.

The three riders and 19 car crew are among a field of more than 500 competitors taking part in the annual central Australian off-road challenge.

One of the riders, Wendy Solomon from Alice Springs, is back for her second year.

She says it is more of a personal challenge than a competition.

"It's always friendly, there's only three of us so we've got to give all the support we need," she said.

Ms Solomon says it is her second time in the race, but she has not been able to do a lot of preparation this year.

"I've been working pretty hard so, yes, just basically on the day get on and ride," she said.

Meanwhile, Finke Desert Race organisers say tonight's scrutineering will be a great opportunity for people to check out the vehicles in the race up close.

Officials will be examining the bikes and cars at Blatherskite Park Showgrounds to ensure they meet required standards.

Race president Antony Yoffa said everyone is invited to watch the scrutineers at work.

"It's not very often that there are motor sport events that involve cars and bikes, but the opportunity to get up close to machinery that is worth ... $300,000 plus, down to $2,000 for some of the bikes, you just get to see the difference, but the passion with all of them is really unchanged," he said.

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