The 9th BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy began with a beautiful African sunrise.
After breaking camp, the riders packed their gear into bags, which were later transported to the next camp.
As is tradition, 2 or 3 teams were randomly selected to handle the task of loading the bags onto the transportation truck.
After a hearty breakfast, the moment everyone had been eagerly anticipating arrived.
Stefanie Grund, Senior Project Manager of the event, waved the checkered flag, signaling the start of this year's adventure riding event.
At 7:45 am local time, Team Brazil, the International Female Team, and Female Team Japan crossed the start line to cheers from the crowd.
The competitors formed groups of 7-9 motorcycles and, guided by their appointed Marshals, embarked on the first day and first Special Challenge.
Only a few kilometers away from the Midgard Country Estate Lodge, still within its perimeter, the riders faced their first Special Challenge.
Day 1, Special Challenge 1: The Namibia Welcome Trial.
Near the ruins of an abandoned copper mine, the participants lined up their bikes at the starting point.
The first rider’s departure marked the start of the timing for the challenge, with the other two riders (or one for a female team) following after a 5-second interval.
Navigating a narrow, short trail through marked gates, the riders tackled sand, steps, drops, and tight turns.
At the end, they parked their bikes side by side and rushed to the mine’s closed entrance to ring a bell.
The timer stopped when the third rider hit the bell – an ideal warm-up for both the teams and the Marshals.