Roc du
maroc
2024

By Britt Raskin

Roc du
maroc 2024

By Britt Raskin

Ride Along during roc du maroc 2024

Roc Du Maroc is an extreme mountain bike endurance race that takes you on an unforgettable 666 kilometer adventure through the Moroccan desert. Spread over 6 stages and with 8500 altimeters, the ride takes you from Ouarzazate along the Atlas mountains to the dunes of Merzouga. This challenge is for all passionate cyclists with good fitness who want to push their limits.

The combination of extreme sport and comfort makes this event unique – participants overnight in luxury desert bivouacs with top quality catering and authentic hotels. With an emphasis on team spirit and personal victory, this ride will be a life-changing experience for many.

Ride Alogn roc du maroc 2024

Roc Du Maroc: an extreme 666-kilometer mountain bike odyssey across Morocco. From the heights of Ouarzazate to the dunes of Merzouga, riders face six stages and conquer 8,500 meters of elevation in an unforgettable desert adventure.

ARRIVAL

400 PARTICIPANTS, 70 VOLUNTEERS AND 30 MOROCCAN STAFF MEMBERS

In addition to the 400 participants, 70 volunteers and 30 Moroccan staff, there were plenty of technicians and medical staff present. 2 flights were specially scheduled for Roc du Maroc participants. Everything was arranged to perfection.

The first 2 nights we sleep in a hotel. In the evening there is a communal dinner followed by a briefing about the coming weeks. In recent weeks there has been a lot of rain here, which has completely swept away certain routes. Last-minute course changes were thus forced.

ARRIVAL

400 PARTICIPANTS, 70 VOLUNTEERS, AND 30 MOROCCAN STAFF MEMBERS

In addition to the 400 participants, 70 volunteers, and 30 Moroccan staff, there were plenty of technicians and medical staff present. 2 flights were specially scheduled for Roc du Maroc participants. Everything was arranged to perfection.

STAGE 0

Ouarzazate

The morning began with essential preparations: having trackers mounted on our camelbags, assembling our bikes with assistance from the technical team, collecting local SIM cards, and savoring one final dip in the pool.

Come lunchtime, we gathered for a cold pasta buffet prepared by the Roc Du Maroc’s chef – all ingredients, water, and kitchen equipment having made the journey with us from Belgium. At 2 PM, we embarked on the 40-kilometer prologue stage, designed as a final dress rehearsal to coordinate volunteers, test equipment, and verify tracking systems.

The course proved more technically demanding than anticipated. Recent downpours had stripped away the gravel, exposing treacherous rock beds beneath. One particularly challenging climb was deemed unrideable, requiring us to dismount and walk. At the first checkpoint, volunteers greeted us with upbeat music, snacks, and isotonic drinks.

Just as we finished, the weather took an unexpected turn. A sudden storm descended upon us, sending everyone scrambling for shelter under the small tents. We improvised protection from torn garbage bags, trying to stay warm and dry – caught off guard by weather no forecast had predicted.

STAGE 0

Ouarzazate

The morning began with essential preparations: mounting trackers to our camelbags, assembling bikes alongside the technical crew, collecting local SIM cards, and savoring a final dip in the pool.

At 2 p.m., we embarked on our first 40-kilometer stage – a dress rehearsal designed to orient volunteers and test our equipment and tracking systems.

The course proved more demanding than anticipated, as recent rains had stripped away the gravel layer, exposing treacherous rock beds beneath. One particularly challenging climb forced all riders to dismount and proceed on foot. At the first checkpoint, volunteers created a festive atmosphere with music, while providing much-needed snacks and isotonic drinks.

However, our spirits were soon dampened by an unexpected storm that sent everyone scrambling for shelter beneath small tents. We improvised protection from torn garbage bags, trying to stay warm and dry – caught completely off guard by weather no forecast had predicted.

STAGE 1

Ouarzazete – Ghasset

110km & 2000hm

Our epic journey began at a castle, where all 400 participants gathered for the start. The race opened with a dramatic sprint, perfectly staged for the cameras.

While the Roc Du Maroc isn’t typically known for technical challenges, this year proved different. Recent rains had stripped away much of the gravel, leaving treacherous stretches of exposed stone. The organizers had carefully marked mandatory dismount points for safety, but my bike handling skills were still put to the test. On one particularly steep descent, I took a hard fall – thankfully emerging with just some scrapes, bruises, and a few scratches on my new glasses.

The 110-kilometer course was grueling, pushing me to my limits, yet I couldn’t help but marvel at our surroundings. We wound through majestic canyons and wadis that seemed straight out of a movie set. Back at camp, we found an impressively organized setup: a bike repair station, pressure washers for cleaning our rides, and a welcoming “camphouse” complete with a bar, campfire, and dining area. Though the shower facilities are basic, they serve their purpose – and that’s what matters most.
Tomorrow brings another long day in the saddle. Here’s hoping my legs are ready for the challenge!

STAGE 1

Ouarzazete – Ghasset

110km & 2000hm

Our journey began spectacularly at a medieval castle, where 400 riders gathered for the start. While the Roc du Maroc isn’t typically known for technical challenges, this year proved different. Recent rains had stripped away the gravel, exposing treacherous stone beds beneath.

The organizers had carefully marked mandatory dismount points for safety, but even so, my bike handling skills were put to the test. On one particularly steep descent, I took a hard fall – thankfully emerging with just some scrapes, bruises, and a few scratches on my new glasses.
The 110-kilometer course was undeniably brutal, pushing me to my limits. Yet despite the suffering, I couldn’t help but marvel at our surroundings. We wound through majestic canyons and wadis that seemed straight out of a cinematic adventure.

The camp that awaited us was impressively organized, featuring a bike repair station, pressure washers for cleaning our rides, and a welcoming “camphouse” complete with a bar, campfire, and dining area. Though the shower facilities are basic, they serve their purpose – and that’s what matters most. Tomorrow brings our longest ride of the week. Here’s hoping my legs are ready for the challenge!

STAGE 2

Ghasset – Ait Tourmert

100km & 2000hm

We faced our greatest challenge yet: a grueling 100-kilometer journey with 2,000 meters of climbing through the Moroccan desert. The day proved brutally difficult, pushing me to my absolute limits – though I took some comfort in knowing I wasn’t suffering alone. Despite the hardship, we were treated to views so magnificent they defy description.

I’ll keep this account brief, as Dad and I were the final riders to complete the course today. The stage’s intensity claimed its toll, with around ten participants forced to abandon their journey.

STAGE 2

Ghasset – Ait Tourmert

100km & 2000hm

Today we faced our greatest challenge: a grueling 100-kilometer journey with 2,000 meters of climbing through the Moroccan desert. It tested every fiber of my being, pushing me to limits I didn’t know I had. The consolation was seeing that I wasn’t alone in my struggle – fatigue and stiff muscles had begun to claim their toll on every rider. Yet even in our collective suffering, we were treated to views so magnificent they defy description.

I’ll keep this account brief, as Dad and I were the final riders to complete the course today. The stage’s intensity proved too much for some, with ten participants forced to abandon their journey – a stark reminder of just how demanding this adventure has become.

STAGE 3

Ait Toumert – El Kelaa M’gouna

78km & 1200hm

Today was meant to be our “recovery” day – a mere 78 kilometers with 1,200 meters of climbing. Despite the shorter distance, it still tested our limits, as the cumulative fatigue from previous days weighed heavily on our bodies. Yet the scenery grew even more spectacular, leading us through lush oases and along intricate irrigation canals. Though technically challenging, the route’s beauty was breathtaking.

The occasional stretches of asphalt provided welcome relief, allowing us to make up time without rushing through the more technical sections. Our bivouac tonight was uniquely situated in the heart of a village, where the organizers had arranged hotel access for proper showers – a simple luxury that felt absolutely divine.

The local community has been remarkably supportive, including the village washerwomen who clean our cycling clothes for just one euro per item. While the price seems incredibly modest, their service has been a godsend, as I hadn’t packed enough kit for each day. We concluded the evening with a three-course dinner and tomorrow’s briefing. Though two demanding days lie ahead, my determination remains unshaken – I’m seeing this through to the end.

STAGE 3

Ait Toumert – El Kelaa M’gouna

78km & 1200hm

Today was meant to be our “recovery” day – a mere 78 kilometers with 1,200 meters of climbing. Despite the shorter distance, it still tested our limits, as the cumulative fatigue of previous days weighed heavily on our bodies. Yet the scenery grew even more spectacular, leading us through lush oases and along intricate irrigation canals. Though technically challenging, the route’s beauty was breathtaking.
The occasional stretches of asphalt provided welcome relief, allowing us to make up time without rushing through the more technical sections.

Our bivouac tonight was uniquely situated in the heart of a village, where the organizers had arranged hotel access for proper showers – a simple luxury that felt absolutely divine. The local community has been remarkably supportive, including the village washerwomen who clean our cycling clothes for just one euro per item. While the price seems incredibly modest, their service has been a godsend, as I hadn’t packed enough kit for each day.

We concluded the evening with a three-course dinner and tomorrow’s briefing. Though two demanding days lie ahead, my determination remains unshaken – I’m seeing this through to the end.

STAGE 4

El Kelaa M’gouna – Alnif

125km & 1700hm

The rides are getting lighter in proportion, but fatigue is starting to dig in. From now on the battle will myself will reach a higher level. Due to the extreme fatigue, sleeping is already improving for everyone.

Today we passed through a lot of villages. This was super beautiful yet also harrowing. Knowing that the trip we make costs more than they earn in years. Hundreds of children begging for “stylo,” “bonbon” or “chocolat” is very confronting.

During our final checkpoint stop, we encountered another participant who had taken a nasty fall on a technical descent. The medical team was incredible, tending to her wounds and stitching her up right there on the trail. Exhausted and somewhat anxious about what tomorrow might bring, I retreated to my tent early for the night.

STAGE 4

El Kelaa M’gouna – Alnif

125km & 1700hm

Though the stages are becoming relatively easier, exhaustion has begun to seep deep into my bones. From here on out, it’s pure willpower that will carry us through. The extreme fatigue has at least made sleeping easier for everyone.

Today’s route took us through countless small villages – a journey both beautiful and sobering. It’s humbling to realize that our adventure costs more than what many here earn in years. The sight of hundreds of children asking for ‘stylo’, ‘bonbon’, or ‘chocolat’ was particularly affecting.

At the final checkpoint, we encountered a fellow rider who had taken such a severe fall on a technical descent that the medical team was stitching her wounds right there on the trail. Their expertise and quick response were impressive. Now, I’m retreating early to my tent, exhausted and harboring a quiet apprehension about tomorrow’s challenges.

STAGE 5

Alnif – The Mummy

153km & 1000hm

This stage broke me, both mentally and physically. Despite receiving ORS treatment for dehydration at the final checkpoint, I continued to struggle. When we finally reached the asphalt, the relief was overwhelming. I dropped to my hands and knees, tears streaming down my face, overcome with emotion.
Our day ended at the bivouac, set up on the former filming location of “The Mummy.” With the most challenging rides behind us, we celebrated our triumph with steaks, fireworks, and a magnificent party under the desert stars.

STAGE 5

Alnif – The Mummy

153km & 1000hm

We faced our most mentally demanding challenge yet: a 153-kilometer journey through a desolate desert landscape. With no shade or changing scenery for hours, we fixed our hopes on a distant tree as a rest stop. Yet after ninety minutes of riding, that same tree remained stubbornly on the horizon.

The terrain was treacherous, known locally as “crème brûlée” – a desert floor of loose sand topped with a delicate crust. Once broken by riders ahead, the surface would give way, causing our wheels to sink deep into the sand. In many sections, we had no choice but to trudge through on foot.

This stage broke me, both mentally and physically. Despite receiving ORS treatment for dehydration at the final checkpoint, I continued to struggle. When we finally reached the asphalt, the relief was overwhelming. I dropped to my hands and knees, tears streaming down my face, overcome with emotion.

Our day ended at the bivouac, set up on the former filming location of “The Mummy.” With the most challenging rides behind us, we celebrated our triumph with steaks, fireworks, and a magnificent party under the desert stars.

STAGE 6

The Mummy – Erfoud

The organizers playfully dubbed it “inside bollocks,” but my experience was anything but light-hearted. Once again, we found ourselves trudging through loose sand, locked in a constant battle against dehydration.

Cycling through a desert in 37-degree heat is no small feat. Our final challenge was a 1.3-kilometer stretch of dunes, where the organizers, with a hint of mischief, suggested we try riding through. Predictably, this created quite the entertainment as every rider’s attempt ended in failure, followed by a twenty-minute slog through ankle-deep sand.

When we finally crossed the finish line, the overwhelming sense of accomplishment was matched only by the pride of receiving our ‘FINISHER’ trophy – a distinction that set us apart from those who couldn’t complete the full course and earned only ‘participant’ status.

For the first time in days, we were treated to real beds in a luxurious bivouac camp, every detail thoughtfully arranged. What an incredible adventure this has been!

STAGE 6

The Mummy – Erfoud

The organizers playfully dubbed it “coasting home,” but my experience was anything but leisurely. Once again, we found ourselves trudging through loose sand, locked in a constant battle against dehydration.

Cycling through a desert in 37-degree heat is no small feat. Our final challenge was a 1.3-kilometer stretch of dunes, where the organizers, with a hint of mischief, suggested we try riding through. Predictably, this created quite the entertainment as every rider’s attempt ended in failure, followed by a twenty-minute slog through ankle-deep sand.

When we finally crossed the finish line, the overwhelming sense of accomplishment was matched only by the pride of receiving our ‘FINISHER’ trophy – a distinction that set us apart from those who couldn’t complete the full course and earned only ‘participant’ status. For the first time in days, we were treated to real beds in a luxurious bivouac camp, every detail thoughtfully arranged. What an incredible adventure this has been!