Moorosi Tsiane
A total of 385 riders are set to battle-it-out in the 2014 Roof of Africa off-road motorbike race scheduled for 4-6 December across Lesotho’s rugged terrain.
According to the Lesotho Off-Road Association (LORA), three Basotho have registered for the event, which covers 425 kilometres of punishing topography, hence its reputation as Africa’s toughest off-road motorbike race. The event starts in Maseru before riders head for Ha-Patriki to start the time-trial edition of the race.
“We have a total of 385 riders who will be taking part in the race this year, which is 25 more than we had in 2013. There will be three female riders—two South Africans and one from Germany,” said LORA president Tebatsi Kuoe.
“The first stage of the race will start at Maseru Club as a Round the Houses event and from there, the riders will go to Ha-Patriki in Semonkong, through ‘Makhoroana villages, for time trials.”
Kuoe further noted the race had become a money-spinner for Lesotho, since its introduction in 1967.
“The Roof of Africa has been able to generate approximately M35million annually, which is pumped directly into Lesotho’s economy through various sectors such as accommodation, hospitality and travel. In addition, we have ensured the event has a positive social impact, so annually, about M50 000 is spent directly on school-shoes for orphans who live in areas through which the route passes.”
Kuoe further added the race had made a landmark television breakthrough this year.
“A breakthrough for the Roof of Africa this year is that Motul has secured television rights with Motors TV in Europe. This means the race will be screened in 40 countries across Europe as well as Mauritius and Reunion, and is expected to reach 42.5 million households. This will really put the race and Lesotho on the map.”
According to Kuoe, the organisers had also taken steps to ensure there are no fatal accidents involving bystanders being hit by the racing bikes.
“We have emphasised the need for the riders to abide by the rules of this country when they are taking part in the race to avoid the loss of lives of ordinary Basotho going about their business, or watching the race.”
Meanwhile, according to the event’s website, this year’s race is set to be the toughest to date, with Englishman Graham Jarvis expected to defend his title.
This year’s event is the 46th consecutive motorcycle edition of the competition.
