Die Ratel

Die Ratel Expedition Race Launches in South Africa

Press Release / 21.12.2021

“The arena is set, the time is set (winter of 2022) and new adventure scenarios are waiting to unravel …

Die Ratel (which means “the Honey Badger” in Afrikaans, a language characteristic to South Africa,) is set to be an unparalleled, old school, expedition adventure race through the most awe-inspiring mountain desert, the Richtersveld.

Situated in the far north-western corner of South Africa, you will find an enormous wilderness with very few roads, few fences and little forced route choice - a blank wild canvas, will you be able to navigate your way through this contour jungle? 

Will you be paddling along the mighty Orange River - the lifeblood of this desolate region - bringing with it lush vegetation, river channels, rapids, and fireflies? 

Will you hike-a-bike over the infamous sharp crags of the Vensterberge? 

Will you trekking over the desert flats with the greatest succulent diversity in the world, the towering Halfmensboom and the stunning Hartmann's Mountain Zebra? 

Will you be abseiling off the giant boulders of the Tatasberg or dancing with the beautiful local Nama people, that have brought their special culture to this area and, thus, has been proclaimed a world heritage site? 

Or is there a twist that you could never foresee?

Many of us find ourselves marvelling at the adventurers & explorers of yesteryear… well, this is your opportunity to explore uncharted & remote territory. The race will cover 500km as an Expedition Race with an expected winning time of 4.5 days and a cutoff of 7. The race will take place between the 9th and 18th of July 2022.

Will you rise to the challenge or let hindsight be the winner in regret?

Entries are open and available here; https://www.nfnf.co.za/homepage/races