Who said that ladies don’t know how to get down and dirty in the world of rally car racing? To those thinking that, you all probably have never heard of the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles, an all-female, nine-day rally event through the North African desert of Morocco that has one unique feature all to its own: teams are not allowed to use any form of technological assistance. That means no digital navigation aids. Instead of relying on technology, teams will have to go old school by using plotters, maps, and a compass.

The race will take place from March 19 to April 2, 2011 where a ceremonial start will take place in Sete, France before moving to Morocco for the official start of the race

All that being said, the registration and preparations for next year’s Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles – the 21st installment in its history - have already begun. So if you’re a lady and you’ve got another lady partner and the two of you have a team supporting you, then register for the event and be one of the 110 teams all vying for the title of being the 2011 Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles champions.

Check out the press release after the jump.

Press Release

Welcome to Morocco! Adventurers and athletes, have you ever wanted to travel through Morocco but do it competitively? Well here is your chance... the most exciting and rewarding off-road motorsport event is celebrating its 21st year. The Rallye Aicha des Gazelles invites you to compete in a nine-day off-road rally race with 200 women from around the globe. From March 19th through April 2nd drivers and navigators together will have the chance to experience this quest.

Tradition navigational tools are removed from this event, making it more challenging then some of the most difficult off-road races in the world. If you are looking for an adventure combined with the most amazing scenery and people, take a look at becoming a Gazelle. Learn more by going to the website at www.rallyeaichadesgazelles.com.

Your adventure awaits you...

RALLYE AICHA DES GAZELLES

International Off-Road Rally Returns to Morocco for the 21st Year

WHAT:

The Rallye Aicha des Gazelles is the only all-women's off-road rally raid in the world. The rally is a grueling test of driving skill and navigation across southern Morocco's most beautiful and challenging terrain. The rally is unique whereby teams are not allowed technological assistance. In the absence of GPS, communications and service crews, teams must find the shortest distance between the checkpoints over nine days of competition with only the aid of traditional navigation – compass, outdated maps, and plotters. The event is an incredible test of endurance, patience, and teamwork, pushing competitors to their limits.

WHEN:

March 19th – April 2nd

*Deadline for registration is February 19th, 2011. Early registration for discounted rates is September 30th, 2010.

WHERE:

France and Morocco

Timeline of events

March 19th – 21st – CEREMONIAL START

Technical and administrative verifications in Sete, France

Transfer to Morocco

March 22nd – 31st – COMPETITION

Southern Morocco

April 2nd – CEREMONIAL FINISH

Essaouira, Morocco

WHO:

Over 110 teams are expected to compete in the event – including professional drivers, athletes, celebrities and adventurers from across the globe.