La Paz, Jan 13 (IANS): Bolivian President Evo Morales celebrated the country's inclusion in the Dakar Rally, saying it marks the first time ever Bolivia has hosted a world-class sporting event.

The motor race entered Bolivian territory Sunday and Morales first flew to the town of Uyuni, where the motorcycle and quad competitors were due to arrive, then flew via helicopter to the town of Villazon on the border with Argentina, the last Bolivian stop on the rally route, reports Xinhua.

"There is a lot of anticipation around the Dakar Rally in Bolivia," Morales told reporters. "I have come, along with our Vice President Alvaro Garcia, to accompany the people coming to take part in this sports celebration, the people coming to see Uyuni. We are making sports history."

Morales said he would visit the sites hosting the race, especially to cheer on the Bolivian competitors.

The race, which started off Jan 5 in Rosario, Argentina, entered Boliva Sunday amid much expectation in communities lining the route. Competitors were to stay overnight in Bolivia and continue the race Monday on their way to Chile, where the finish line is located.

Bolivia has enjoyed a surge in national and foreign tourism, thanks to the rally, with visitors starting to arrive in Uyuni last week in anticipation of the race and to see local sites of interest, such as the Uyuni saltflats.

Morales called on locals to show visitors their generosity and warm hospitality.