By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
-The 55th Roof of Africa Sports Race, called the “Mother of Hard Enduro”, is all set to enthrall off-road racers and spectators alike.
Announced in collaboration between Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) and Lesotho Off Road Association (LORA), this premier event which starts on 28-31 November promises to be a high-octane showcase of grit, determination, and top-notch driving skills.
The storied history of the Roof of Africa Sports Race is enough to make any adrenaline junkie’s heart race faster than a finely-tuned engine. Known as the “Mother of Hard Enduro”, this three-day event is the epitome of off-road racing, challenging even the most skilled.
In each category, there will be a Round the Houses Prologue on Day 1, followed by Time Trial which determines the starting positions for the first mountain day on Day 2. It offers four classes: Gold, Silver, Bronze and Iron Classes. All competitors need to possess valid Motorsport South Africa (MSA) Cross Country Motorcycle or Endure License.
The man at the forefront of this year’s event, Mr. Koo Lemeke, has been appointed as Chief Marshal, a prestigious position of great responsibility. In this role, Lemeke will oversee all aspects of the race, ensuring that riders, communities, and the environment are well-protected.
In his statement, Lemeke expresses his enthusiasm for the event and his determination to make this year’s race the best one yet.
Back in the swinging sixties, in 1967 to be precise, the inaugural Roof of Africa Sports Race took off in a symphony of racing engines and dust-covered helmets. This legendary race was born as a demanding test of endurance and skill, with daredevil motorcyclists taking on the untamed wilderness of Lesotho.
The riders will gather officially for registration on November 27th. As the anticipation builds for the 55th Roof of Africa Sports Race, the buzz will hit the streets of Maseru from Maseru Mall circle on November 28th.
Public Relations Officer at LTDC, Mr. Molapo Matela mentions that the influx of riders and spectators for the Roof of Africa Sports Race brings not only the roar of engines but also a surge of economic activity. As the event draws near, the demand for accommodation and other services will be at an all-time high, creating a flurry of temporary job opportunities.
Transportation and restaurants will be in high demand, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.
However, in the decades since its inception, the race has continued to captivate thrill-seekers from all corners of the globe, earning its title as the “Mother of Hard Enduro” and cementing its place in motorsport history.
In a bid to further solidify the impact of the Roof of Africa Sports Race on the local community, the organizers have set their sights on a new collaboration with the Lesotho National Olympics Committee (LNOC). This partnership seeks to harness the passion and commitment of athletes from various disciplines, joining forces to promote the spirit of competition and camaraderie in Lesotho.
The goal of this partnership is to foster a stronger connection between the Roof of Africa Sports Race and the wider community, using the power of sport to bring people together and celebrate the beauty and diversity of Lesotho’s landscape.
The race is set to be one of the largest yet, with a whopping 520 competitors from around the world registering for this high-octane event. This impressive number is a testament to the enduring appeal of the “Mother of Hard Enduro,” drawing in rider eager to test their limits and conquer the rugged terrain of Lesotho.
Of the 520 brave people eager to tackle the Roof of Africa, 10 riders will be flying the flag for Lesotho, the host nation of this prestigious event. These homegrown heroes will be carrying the hopes of their country on their shoulders, riding with pride and determination to put their skills to the test on their home turf.
With such a diverse array of riders from all corners of the globe, the competition promises to be a thrilling display of cultural diversity and sporting excellence.
Wade Young succeeded, securing his eighth victory at the Roof of Africa Hard Enduro in Lesotho, despite the blistering temperatures. The 2023 edition of the event, held in the breathtaking Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, presented a stark contrast in conditions compared to the previous year.
Young’s unparalleled performance at the 2023 Roof of Africa Hard Enduro cemented his position as a true legend of the sport. Defying extreme heat and grueling terrain, the eight-time champion rode to victory, leaving a lasting imprint on the race’s history.
In a fitting tribute to Lesotho’s Mountain Kingdom and the Roof of Africa’s 200-year anniversary, Young’s victory will be remembered as a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit.