Blending the love of driving with the challenge of precise navigation, the Rebelle Rally is the first women’s off-road navigation rally in the United States. While some rallies are known for speed, racing against the clock. The Rebelle Rally is not a race for speed. Fully engaging the mind, body, and spirit over ten days, teams of two are challenged and their skills of navigation tested in unique and demanding ways.

Covering more than 1,200 miles (2,000 kilometers) of terrain across California and Nevada, the Rebelle Rally is both a road trip and fierce competition. The challenge of determining correct headings, finding hidden checkpoints is elevated by removing access to current technology. Smartphones, GPS, computers, are all exchanged for topographical maps, compass, and a roadbook driving a stock four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle.

Who Competes in the Rebelle Rally?

A New York Times headline stated, “Only the most Hard-Core Women Go Off-Road for Rebelle Rally.” The truth is any woman who has the drive can join the Rebelle. For women who love adventure and competition, the Rebelle Rally is a life goal. For previous competitors, it can become an obsession.

The adventure and community of the Rebelle Rally keeps luring competitors back. There is nothing else like it. One example of this is Emme Hall four-time Rebelle and perpetual winner. Last year, she and teammate Rebecca Donaghe made headlines competing in a $400K Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

Last year Mitsubishi Motors entered their first team, Record the Journey, into the Rebelle Rally. Their team was comprised of Air Force veterans Karah Behrend and Rachael Ridenour. Rachael, also a four-time Rebelle Rally participant, served as navigator. There were many firsts for Karah, not only as a first-time competitor, participating as a Rebelle Rally adaptive athlete. The modified hand controls on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross CUV – nicknamed “Rosie the Riveter,” allowed Karah to drive in the competition.

Want to join the Rebelle?

Those thinking about participating don’t have to be a professional drivers like Emme and Rachael though. A spirit of adventure, excellent communication, and being up for a challenge is the highest prerequisite. You will need to have participated in a 4×4 driving course and an introductory navigation course or equivalent before crossing the starting line though. The Rebelle offers many of these training sessions March through September before the October event. Local driving courses, off-road cor Jeep clubs are also great resources for training.

The next Rebelle Rally is scheduled for October 8-17, 2020. Registration is currently open. Those interested in participating can register at RebelleRally.com