Quebec Women Take on the Challenge of the Roses des Sables Rally

Two Quebec women are preparing to compete in the Roses des Sables rally next October, an adventure that will take them through the Moroccan desert. Christine Rivard, 66, from Saint-Basile, and Nathalie Delpierre, 55, from Quebec, are embarking on this 1,200-kilometer orienteering challenge.

The Spark of an Idea

The idea for this adventure originated with Christine Rivard. “We looked at each other and laughed. Nathalie said “Are we doing that?”. On Monday morning, I spoke to the Canadian coach to notice the implications. After our conversation, I saw that it was possible, because it was our age too. Two weeks later, we were registered,” says Christine, who is retired.

Les Algazelles Roses des Sables

The duo, calling themselves “Les Algazelles Roses des Sables,” are currently in full preparation for the rally. The event, which saw 250 participants from over 10 countries last year according to the Journal de Quebec, is not a race, but an orienteering rally.

“It’s not a race, it’s an orienteering rally. We have events every day and sometimes at night where we have to obtain GPS beacons,” explains Nathalie, who will serve as the co-pilot. Christine, experienced in driving motorcycles, side-by-sides, and ATVs, will be the pilot, though the two women will exchange roles during the 100% female rally.

“I like driving around, making stopovers. I am an adventurer,” confides Christine, who recently traveled across New Brunswick by motorcycle.

Funding and Preparation

The team is currently fundraising to cover the approximately $32,500 in costs, including the rental of a side-by-side vehicle as reported by the Journal de Quebec. The organization supports partner associations like Ruban Rose and Le Club des breakfasts.

Preparation is rigorous, requiring both physical and mental fortitude. “It will be very intense physically and psychologically. Physically, I had no choice but to resume walking and yoga. Christine goes indoor cycling while waiting for sunny days,” emphasizes Nathalie, a professional accountant.

Christine’s background includes a black belt in karate and Iaïdō, a Japanese martial art practiced with the sword. “At our age, you have to maintain yourself. You have to pay attention to your diet, you have to exercise. We have to take care of ourselves,” she adds.

A Spirit of Teamwork and Achievement

The women are approaching this challenge with a focus on self-improvement, sharing, solidarity, and friendship. “We have to be resourceful and we are not alone, there is a sizeable team behind us,” says Nathalie.

“What we want is to pass the starting arch, which means that we will have worked hard for a year to obtain there, to have fun all the way and cross the finish line. This will already be such a success for us,” says Nathalie.

The Algazelles are using social media to share information about their fundraising activities and preparation, including mechanics courses.