Between the dunes of Dakhla, the events of the second day of the 11th edition of the Raid Sahraouiya took place on Monday, in an atmosphere marked by challenges, perseverance, and solidarity.
At this stage of the challenge, the female raiders began the scheduled events with a mountain bike race over a distance of 20 km, followed by 6.6 kilometers of Run and Bike on demanding terrain, thus testing their endurance and ability to adapt to the challenges imposed by the desert.
In this course, each stage is a true test of physical and mental strength, where solidarity between the participants, who compete in pairs, becomes essential to overcome the natural obstacles that dot their route.
In a statement to MAP, Laurent Grac, a member of the organizing committee of this race, emphasized that the objective of this event is to test the participants' ability to adapt to the natural challenges of the desert, adding that the course was designed to test both their physical and mental capacities.
For her part, Canadian participant Amira Serradj indicated that this Raid is a unique challenge of its kind, explaining that “the desert teaches us patience and perseverance. Being in a pair also gives us a lot of motivation and mental strength”.
She also noted that the peculiarity of this human and sporting experience remains the spirit of solidarity that reigns among all the participants. “When we see a pair in difficulty, we all stop to help them”, she said.
“Although the course of this second stage was difficult, especially during the mountain bike phase, the feeling of accomplishment when crossing each stage is indescribable, especially since the rewards collected during this competition will be donated to associations”, indicated, for her part, the Moroccan participant, Malak Nadif.
In all the Sahraouiya events, the participants are accompanied by a medical and technical staff to ensure the event runs in the best conditions.
Initiated by the “Lagon Dakhla Association” until February 08, this multisport event, combining mountain biking, canoeing, biking, running, night trail, and orienteering, is an open invitation to cross the threshold, confront one's limits, and overcome challenges, while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of the city of Dakhla.
After a decade of success, the Raid Sahraouiya is today much more than a sporting event. It has transformed into a true community of supportive women, transcending borders and disciplines to promote values of sharing and kindness.

