Well-deserved awards

Under the immense white Marquee tent that takes up quarters each year within the ramparts of Essaouira, an honour guard formed by the event’s organizers greeted the Gazelles as they entered the tent. Having experienced the Rallye by their sides, at the same pace, and witnessing first-hand the Gazelles’ moments of discouragement and happiness, the frayed nerves, jumps for joy, fatigue, amazement at the Moroccan landscapes…, the event’s organizers truly understand just how challenging the Rallye really is.

Gazelles, organizers, families, friends and event partners all came together for the presentation of trophies and partner gifts.  Moroccan Secretary of Tourism, Nadia Boutelem came in person to congratulate the Gazelles. “Congratulations to every team. You have experienced Morocco in all its simplicity. Each edition is better than the last, and it has become a real showcase for Morocco. We are extremely proud of this event and the values it represents.” The Governor of Essaouira, Jamar Matatar, then took the floor: “I am addressing you for the fifth time and yet every year brings new emotions and feelings of joy and pleasure. Thank you for allowing us this experience. If it weren’t for the decorum required by our status, believe me, we would come dance with you! Thank you to all the organizers for the way they run this event. And finally, thanks to Dominique Serra to have selected Essaouira to host these events. And bravo to all the winners, with a special mention for this year’s Moroccan teams!”

The event organizers took the opportunity to pay tribute to the memory of well-known former Gazelle Florence Deramond,  who passed away during this year’s edition.

Avid Rallye supporter Paul Belmondo then took to the stage to present the prizes in First Participation Challenge: in Quad/Moto/SSV Class, Team 22 (Tracy MORANDIN / Valérie ROCHE - MORANDIN Yves), our one and only biker team, who earned our admiration throughout the event… In SUV Class, Team 312 (Laetitia GIRAUD / Sarah SOURBIER - FRUIT4FIT). In 4×4 Class, Team 139 (Léa GOULLIEUX / Laetitia BERTIN - EUROPCAR) who turned in an excellent performance. Finally, in e-Gazelles, Team 503 (Natacha BORDRY / Clothilde HAMION - Crédit Suisse).

Every team, without exception, was then invited on stage to receive their trophy, to thunderous applause and cheering from the enthusiastic crowd!