For seven days, 45 all-women teams of two, aged 17 to 59, faced off not only each other in a multi-sports challenge but also the demanding terrain of the Western Sahara desert which offered plenty of sun during the day and cold winds at night.
The organisers of the Saharouiya’s ninth edition described the event as a “mixture of laughter, tears and emotions”.
With plenty of tears and emotions on display over the course of 22 day and night events that covered 120km (75 miles), every night, the participants would put aside the rivalry over dinner, talk about their experiences and hardships, and dance their tiredness away.
For the inexperienced, the wind, sand and changing weather conditions provided a sterner test than anything in the past.
It became hot in the day, cold winds blew at night, there was rain, and tired legs and shoulders from carrying bicycles in the desert sand led to tired minds.
“If I tell you how hard it was, you won’t be able to feel it,” Ghizlaine…
2023-03-05 01:00:04
Original from www.aljazeera.com
The Dakhla Desert, located in the Western Sahara region of Morocco, is a challenging and unforgiving terrain that has been the subject of various expeditions and explorations throughout history. It is a vast expanse of sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and arid plains that stretches across thousands of miles, posing formidable obstacles to those who seek to cross it. However, through the lens of experience, one can gain a unique understanding of this rugged landscape and the people who call it home.
To challenge the Dakhla Desert is an undertaking that requires both physical and mental fortitude. The harsh conditions of the desert, such as extreme temperatures, lack of water and food, and treacherous terrain, are just some of the obstacles that explorers must overcome. Yet, despite the challenges, the Dakhla Desert remains a popular destination for adventure-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and researchers alike.
Experiencing the Dakhla Desert not only requires one to adapt to the environment but also to learn from the locals. The nomadic tribes that call the desert home have developed unique skills and knowledge that have allowed them to thrive in such a harsh environment. Their resilience, resourcefulness, and ability to navigate the unforgiving terrain provide valuable insight into how humans can live in harmony with nature.
Moreover, exploring the Dakhla Desert fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities of ecosystems and the threats to their survival. As one navigates the dunes and barren stretches of the desert, they come to realize the fragile balance that exists between the environment and the life that thrives within it. It becomes apparent that without proper management and conservation efforts, these delicate ecosystems can easily be destroyed, irreversibly impacting the lives of those who call it home.
In conclusion, challenging the Dakhla Desert is not only an undertaking for the brave but a unique opportunity to understand the complexities of nature and the people who live in harmony with it. The challenges posed by the desert help us gain valuable insights into the resilience of ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts. Ultimately, through experience and understanding, we can appreciate this rugged and beautiful landscape and the value it brings to our world.