In October 2016, women from all over the world will drive SUVs, pickup trucks and crossovers across the southwest in a ten-day off-road navigation challenge called the Rebelle Rally. Ready to watch the glass ceiling get smashed with sand tires?
As the event’s website explains;
“It is not a race for speed, but a unique and demanding event based on the elements of headings, hidden checkpoints, time, and distance using maps, compass, and roadbook.”
Participants will not be using GPS, computers or cell phones. It’s all old-school tech and instinct.
Race cars aren’t involved either; competing vehicles must be street legal and fall into a “4x4” or “crossover” class. That’s pretty much “anything with low range” or a “lifted hatchback-style SUV,” respectively. There will also be competitor-car rental options if you don’t feel like risking your own ride in the desert.
Again, the whole point is adventure and exploration. That will make the event much more accessible than something like Baja or Dakar, which require massive investments of money and experience.
The Rebelle Rally has no professional driving requirements, just a proficiency in off-roading and a strong sense of independence. Before you book your spot though, it’s not too casual; entrance fee is $5,000 before you buy fuel.
Driving teams will be two women each, with registration opening December 15th and closing after 60 have signed up.
The Rebelle Rally is coming together in large part by the efforts of off-road pro Emily Miller. She’s competed in and organized events all over world, even taken the podium at the Gazelle Rally in Morocco. Here’s what she has to say about putting on Rebelle:
“My goal is for women to sharpen and refine their capabilities and build the confidence and skill set to take on future journeys – wherever they may lead.”
“The sport of off-road, the vastness of the open desert, and the lessons of precise navigation have had a profound impact on my life and the lives of many others. Our team is excited to share this and build a platform for women to shine.”
So right now the “woman’s role” at your standard off-road event is pretty much limited to being used as decoration in a leather loin cloth that says “MONSTER ENERGY.” That sucks because it doesn’t make a very welcoming environment to non-penis-having potential participants.
Changing that status quo is going to start with Rebelle, so I couldn’t be happier something like this is coming together. Even if I can’t particpate myself.
Stay tuned on Truck Yeah! for updates, or follow the Rebelle directly on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. If you’re seriously interested in competing, check out the full briefing right here and the event’s official website.
Image via Rebel Rally
Contact the author at andrew@jalopnik.com.