Live Lesotho has announced that the 2020 Motul Roof of Africa will be going ahead as planned. While the coronavirus pandemic will necessitate some changes to the way the event is staged, riders can look forward to a classic “Mother of Hard Enduro” which will challenge competitors in all classes (Gold, Silver and Bronze).
Although ongoing travel restrictions in some countries may limit the number of international riders who can participate this year, the headline news at this stage is that Wade Young (Sherco Factory Team powered by Motul) will be back to defend the Gold Class title he won so decisively last year (travel restrictions permitting). To date, Young has won an incredible five Roof of Africa titles – only Roof legend Alfie Cox has more victories to his name – including the last three in a row.
With more than 200 riders having signed up already, the organisers are confident that there will be a strong showing by riders from across southern Africa.
After a year in which the Extreme Enduro season has been severely disrupted, with many events either postponed until 2021 or cancelled, the Motul Roof of Africa represents the perfect opportunity for riders to get back into the Maluti Mountains and enjoy some of the region’s most breath-taking – and challenging – high-altitude landscapes.
“I’m pleased to be able to end the speculation as to whether the Motul Roof of Africa would be run this year,” commented Charan Moore, Motul Roof of Africa Route Director and Manager of Live Lesotho. “The confirmed dates are 9th – 12th December 2020, and I’m also happy to squash the rumours that this year’s routes will be easier than usual. That’s certainly not the case, so I’d advise riders in every class to get out there and train and prepare properly in anticipation of some epic Extreme Enduro action,” added Moore.
It is important to note that while the safety measures for Motorsport events around the world are evolving, the current regulations, in compliance with MSA’s event requirements, will include:
- All entrants and support staff will need to supply COVID-19 tests that indicate a negative status within 72 hours of their arrival at the border for entry into Lesotho. You will then be allowed 14 days of travel and the same COVID-19 test can be used when returning to South Africa. The organisers are confirming if their medical partner will have a COVID-19 testing station at the event.
- Screening and sanitising protocols will be followed at the start of each section of the event, including a verification process and scrutineering, time trial and all race stages.
- There will be no spectators or hospitality this year to avoid mass gatherings and maintain social distancing.
- Each competitor may have up to 5 crew members so a total of 6 people per entry (1 competitor and 5 crew). The DSP for each race day will be open to riders and crew only.
- There will be no Round the Houses or EduroX to avoid mass gatherings and maintain social distancing.
- The programme of events will include a verification process and scrutineering on Wed, time trial on Thurs and race days 1 and 2 on Fri and Sat respectively.
- There will be no bike wash facility – again, to maintain social distancing.
- It is uncertain at this stage if there will be a prize-giving ceremony for the top 3 riders in each class – an application has been made to MSA for permission and approval is awaited. It has been confirmed there will be no main prize-giving ceremony for the remainder of the competitors, although medals will still be available for finishers and trophies will be made available for collection after the event.
The organisers are committed to the safety and wellbeing of everyone connected with the Roof and are determined to eliminate the risk of disease transmission. For more information about the COVID-19 measures that are being implemented, entrants are asked to visit the official Facebook page: theroofofafrica – updates will be posted regularly as the situation continues to evolve.
Entries for the Motul Roof of Africa 2020 are now open on a strictly first-come, first-served basis. Various payment schedules are available up until the last day of November 2020, when entries will close. Full details can be found at the official Motul Roof of Africa website: www.roofofafrica.co.ls
