It is an event unlike any other in the rally world--and not just because all 220 of the competitors are women. The Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc, now in its 21^st year, is unique in that participants are allowed no technological assistance. They must find the shortest distance between checkpoints scattered across the Moroccan desert with only the aid of traditional navigation tools--compass, outdated maps, and plotters. No cell phones, no GPS!

A grueling test of driving prowess and navigation skill across southern Morocco's enchanting and unpredictable landscape, the nine-day event pushes the Gazelles to their limits. Complete with fierce sandstorms and harsh heat, the world's largest desert also provides some incredibly starry nights and enchanting vistas.

Rod Hall Racing's Emily Miller represents the United States, returned for her third Gazelle rally in March with her eye on the podium. Partnering with her as the navigator half of Team 109 was Armelle Medard of France, seven-time Gazelle participant and 2008 champion. Joining these pros were two more Americans, sisters Amy Lerner and Tricia Reina (Team 107), who arrived in Morocco like many of the participants--without any rally or racing experience whatsoever. Both teams piloted Hummer H3s. We'll learn more about these adventurous women in the pages to follow.

Often overlooked in the excitement of the rally is the event's medical and educational charity, the Heart of Gazelles. A caravan that includes medical personnel from cardiologists to ophthalmologists runs parallel to the competition every day, conducting check-ups, dispensing vaccinations, even performing cataract surgery. Donations raised by the rally participants are sizable, allowing the volunteer staff to make a difference in the lives of women and children living in the desert.

"We passed two locations of 'mobile' school houses funded by the Heart of Gazelles," says Reina. "These are tent schools that are able to be relocated as the nomadic population moves." Her sister adds, "We saw firsthand the need for the work being done by the Heart of Gazelles and are happy to be supporting it."

If the caravan represents the heart of the Gazelles, the racers themselves represent its spirit. Stopping to offer a helping hand, another set of sand ladders, or just some much-needed encourage is the modus operandi of the rally participants--the much-respected Gazelle Spirit.

Miller says the thing she always most impressed with during the Gazelle rallies is the camaraderie: "I can't stop thinking about the friendships I've gained over the past three Moroccan rallies. I hope the first timers will continue to return. Each year, the lessons grow and build upon the last. And each year, the friendships and connections deepen."

Gazelles range in age from college students to grandmothers, representing dozens of countries and every profession imaginable, united in their goal of competing against each other, or just against themselves.

"I couldn't help but look at the women who were digging out, struggling, pushing themselves over those long days," she says, "and feel a sense of admiration and respect for each and every one who chose this adventure."

And here follows their story....