I've found a new shortcut in shifting sand. Showcased in this new IL WR run :

Don't gain much time for the first two laps, but more for the last one. In the last lap, it is probably worth it in the GP in full-game runs.

I think that the fact this has not been used until now is testament to how boring that track is (also, that it is a nitro challenge doesn't help ; it would be more useful if it was possible to use it twice in a run)

I honestly feel like it would do better with more decoration. It already has fantastic run ray-tracing in higher quality modes, but yeah it's still pretty dull. Thanks, I'll have to consider my choices in the GP some day from this.

This skip absolutely gives me a better time on the nitro challenge, nice find! Using your new tech, I take the regular entrance (not woodramp) into the pyramid, wiggle around and get most of the nitros in the pyramid on the first two laps, then use the skip for lap three. It's even better if you are lucky enough to find a boost power-up and save it for the end.

A lot of time is lost slowing down to pick up the nitros, a more skilled driver like you guys might still get a better time going around the longer way, but it really helps for me, thanks! :) (Edit: Nitro challenge should be faster for everyone now actually.)

This makes Shifting Sands faster than Antediluvian Abyss for the GPs, definitely worth testing.

I don't understand how Antedilvian Abyss was ever faster, at least in Expert. I get a Shifting Sands lap in 40-42s ; while an Antediluvian Abyss one is more 44-46s. The red skidding boost are not easy to do well on Abyss.