Prince Albert II Launches 34th Edition of the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles in Morocco
The only Monegasque team, 'Sœurs de Route', aims to promote women's empowerment while raising awareness for multiple sclerosis.
The 34th edition of the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles commenced on April 11, 2023, in Morocco, with H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco officiating the starting ceremony.
This year, 172 teams are participating, highlighting the unique presence of the 'Sœurs de Route', the sole Monegasque team comprised of Juliette Rapaire and Sarah Gharsalli.
Characterized as a 100% female and 100% off-road competition, the rally differentiates itself by promoting eco-driving principles.
Unlike traditional rally-raid events that prioritize speed, the rally emphasizes navigation using a map, compass, and ruler to traverse the Moroccan Sahara while aiming to minimize distance between checkpoints across a course that totals 1300 kilometers.
For team members Juliette and Sarah, the journey encompasses more than mere athletic achievement.
United in friendship, they established 'Sœurs de Route', a non-profit organization aimed at inspiring women to take on athletic challenges while supporting causes important to them.
Juliette, who works as an audiovisual producer at Monaco Info, stated the intent for the association to maintain a lasting impact.
Sarah, who has been living with multiple sclerosis since 2017, has pledged to represent the France Multiple Sclerosis Foundation during the competition.
She emphasized the importance of demonstrating that illness does not preclude achieving significant accomplishments: "No matter the disease we have, we are still capable of doing great things.
The illness shouldn’t stop us from living and doing the things we want."
With backing from various sponsors, including the SBM, the Princely Government, and the Monegasque Chess Federation, the duo approaches the challenge with both enthusiasm and a sense of anticipation regarding their experience in the desert.
Sarah remarked on the reassuring atmosphere of camaraderie that accompanies the event, stating, "What is comforting is that we all depart together, embodying a true spirit of solidarity and sisterhood."
The rally is scheduled to run until April 26, culminating in Essaouira.
Stats About the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles:
Total Teams: 172
Total Participants: 344
Average Age: 43 years
Oldest Participant: 71 years (Team #192)
Youngest Participant: 22 years (Team #217)
Categories Represented:8 SSV Teams
1 Quad Team
5 Crossover Teams
5 E-Gazelles Teams
153 4X4 Teams (including 3 Retrofit Teams: #196, #208, #253)
Represented Automobile Brands: 19
This year, 172 teams are participating, highlighting the unique presence of the 'Sœurs de Route', the sole Monegasque team comprised of Juliette Rapaire and Sarah Gharsalli.
Characterized as a 100% female and 100% off-road competition, the rally differentiates itself by promoting eco-driving principles.
Unlike traditional rally-raid events that prioritize speed, the rally emphasizes navigation using a map, compass, and ruler to traverse the Moroccan Sahara while aiming to minimize distance between checkpoints across a course that totals 1300 kilometers.
For team members Juliette and Sarah, the journey encompasses more than mere athletic achievement.
United in friendship, they established 'Sœurs de Route', a non-profit organization aimed at inspiring women to take on athletic challenges while supporting causes important to them.
Juliette, who works as an audiovisual producer at Monaco Info, stated the intent for the association to maintain a lasting impact.
Sarah, who has been living with multiple sclerosis since 2017, has pledged to represent the France Multiple Sclerosis Foundation during the competition.
She emphasized the importance of demonstrating that illness does not preclude achieving significant accomplishments: "No matter the disease we have, we are still capable of doing great things.
The illness shouldn’t stop us from living and doing the things we want."
With backing from various sponsors, including the SBM, the Princely Government, and the Monegasque Chess Federation, the duo approaches the challenge with both enthusiasm and a sense of anticipation regarding their experience in the desert.
Sarah remarked on the reassuring atmosphere of camaraderie that accompanies the event, stating, "What is comforting is that we all depart together, embodying a true spirit of solidarity and sisterhood."
The rally is scheduled to run until April 26, culminating in Essaouira.
Stats About the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles:
Total Teams: 172
Total Participants: 344
Average Age: 43 years
Oldest Participant: 71 years (Team #192)
Youngest Participant: 22 years (Team #217)
Categories Represented:8 SSV Teams
1 Quad Team
5 Crossover Teams
5 E-Gazelles Teams
153 4X4 Teams (including 3 Retrofit Teams: #196, #208, #253)
Represented Automobile Brands: 19