45 all-women teams of two, aged 17 to 59, competed in a multi-sports challenge in the Western Sahara desert for seven days. The ninth Saharouiya was a “combination of laughter, tears and emotions,” according to the organizers. Over 22 day and night activities that stretched 120km (75 miles), the participants would put aside their competitiveness over supper, chat about their struggles, and dance their exhaustion away. Wind, sand, and changeable weather tested the novice more than ever.
Hot days, chilly nights, rain, and worn legs and shoulders from dragging bicycles through desert sand led to fatigued brains. Ghizlaine Ammor, who won the challenge with Sofia Skiredj, remarked, “If I tell you how hard it was, you won’t be able to experience it. “Live it to understand.” All 45 teams have another aim than competing. They all supported a cause or organization. Some challengers explain why they ran on the desert sand. “My worst experience” Sara, who represented SOS Children’s Villages Morocco alongside Houda, remarked, “This is the first time I’ve done something like this.” I’m glad I’m here. It was perhaps my worst experience. But it’s a challenge for me, and I’d do it again if asked. It was amazing, and we met amazing people who push themselves to the maximum for themselves and the lovely causes they represent.” Houda had more “difficult experiences.” “It was my first time but surely not the last,” Houda remarked. I just trained for a few months, so it was quite difficult for me. Given my purpose, I don’t regret doing this or being here.”
Willpower
Cecile and Alexia travelled from southern France after hearing about this event from friends. Cecile remarked, “We wanted to do this.” “We started training in September and met weekly to run, cycle, or deep train. You need mind, will, and desire to get through this. “We’re raising awareness about childhood cancer. So we persevered. No escape.” I liked everything. The oldest participant was 50-year-old Iman Akelei. She and her partner finished third, loving the sport and the company. “This was mostly for fun. “I enjoy sports, outdoors, difficulties, and the concept that it was a women’s event,” Akelei remarked. I liked everything. I race marathons, but this was much harder than expected. Cycling in the desert is not enjoyable. The entire circuit challenged us.
It was worthwhile. Running is my escape. Trance-like. Running clears my head and helps me meditate.” Umubyeyi Ernestine returned for her fourth year. Ernestine, a Rwandan medical student residing in Morocco since 2019, returns to Dakhla for pleasure. She called it beautiful and never boring. “You push yourself. I tell my buddies it’s like a vacation for me, but different. I love sports. Running helps me unwind and generate fresh ideas.”
