Surviving the Desert Race
Thalefang Charles | Friday June 27, 2014 16:50
Dust all over their cold bitten faces and heavy jackets that were the fabric shields against the unforgiving June nights in the Kgalagadi bush, they will be there. Heavily exhausted, racing vehicles will not really be their concern. They will have had their Mantshwabisi adventure. To many people, Mantshwabisi is an annual camping experience in the cold Kgalagadi during the Desert Race.
The common response from many people about their first memory of the Toyota Kalahari Botswana 1000 Desert Race is the cold. These are people who refer to the race as “Mantshwabisi” - a small village in Kweneng that used to host the epic campsite parties of the event. They are the fun loving people that actually make the event such an exciting desert adventure. Even race drivers have acknowledged how they enjoy the presence of the local spectators.
This year, the race has been moved to Jwaneng in the Southern District, about 200km from Gaborone. So since it is not a short drive from the city where most spectators come from, planning ahead is necessary for those who wish to have it both; enjoy the race and the Mantshwabisi adventure. These are the guidelines in surviving the desert race.
Prepare in time
Get all your supplies, camping materials, warm clothes, food and drinks in time. Jwaneng is a big mining town with banks and grocery stores so it would not be a big hassle if you decide to get your supplies there. But some items like liquor could easily get sold out.
Transport and sober driver
You need reliable transport to get there and since this is a racing event, cars are on show. It is time to show off your 4X4 or your classic off-road vehicle. But if you do not have a vehicle, there is no problem. Remember there are two events here, Mantshwabisi Adventure and Desert Race so choose the one you can afford. Gather your cousins and head for the bush or just hire a minibus - the youth call it Mozwane.
Drinking and driving
Drinking and driving is illegal in Botswana. It is also illegal to drink alcohol in the vehicle even if you are not the driver. Our police are equipped with the latest alcohol detecting gadgets. The charges can ruin your life plus it is really dangerous to drink and drive especially after witnessing professional drivers doing their thing. Alcohol could make you feel like you are also part of the race. Do not attempt the stunts you see in Mantshwabisi, it has taken those drivers a whole lot of practice to be professional racers.
Road safety
The road to Jwaneng, especially between Kanye and Jwaneng (Trans-Kalahari Highway) is dangerous. It is used mostly by heavy trucks. It has some deadly bumps that can be trouble to motorists. Please drive carefully. Cooperate with other road users and look out for pedestrians.
Spectator viewing areas
Get the route-map and check the viewing areas where the public can get a panoramic view of the racing vehicles. Ideal spots are sharp corners, long stretches and muddy areas. These places also provide best opportunities for good action images and talking points. You do not need to be at the starting point on Saturday morning but try to be at the finish line by Sunday afternoon. The second question you would be asked about the event is: “Who won the race?” So you do not want to be clueless after spending sleepless nights at Mantshwabisi.
Campsites
After the sun goes down, the real Mantswabisi adventure takes full swing as multitudes start bonfires and drink the night away. This is what most people come for. There are official campsites with proper facilities. You are urged to take precautions at these campsites as there have been reported cases of violence, rape and all sorts of criminal behaviour. Usually, the police are nearby to help you. Even if you are drunk and cannot find your way to the tent, it is best to ask the police/security for assistance. Travel with people that you know and trust, avoid drinking too much and leave your valuables at home.
Alcohol
It is not a secret that ever since President Ian Khama declared war against alcohol, most events that depend on liquor to provide the necessary spice have been battling to survive. Mantshwabisi adventure (not the race) is about fun, alcohol, camping and more alcohol. But the police could easily arrest you for drinking in public because the laws of the land do not allow that. So wielding your beer bottle carelessly could actually get you in trouble. Again we advise that you should just be vigilant around the police with your beer because it could ruin your Mantshwabisi.