Authority & Mission
- LORA is the official governing body for motorsport in Lesotho, recognized and registered by law under the Lesotho Sports and Recreation Commission (LSRC).
- Vision: To lead motorsport in Lesotho by fostering safety, adventure, and community engagement. Mission: Provide dependable event oversight, promote inclusivity, uphold sporting integrity, and drive sustainable development in the motorsport community.
Signature Events
LORA organizes and oversees major motorsport events in Lesotho, including:
- The Roof of Africa (“Mother of Hard Enduro”): A historic and internationally renowned off-road motorcycle race.
- The 57th edition kicked off in late November 2024. The race typically spans multiple days with participants starting from Maseru and traversing challenging routes through mountainous terrain.
- Introduced an Adventure Class in 2023 to accommodate more participants and diversify competition categories.
- Senqu Hard Enduro: A newer, regional race launched in Qacha’s Nek, serving as preparation for riders ahead of the Roof of Africa.
⛰ Cultural, Economic & Community Impact
- Economic Boost: The Roof of Africa brings in international riders—usually around 400—along with their crews and families, generating substantial tourism-related revenue for Lesotho. The event supports hotels, transport, restaurants, and local businesses.
- National Endorsement: The event is valued by national leadership. It is formally launched by King Letsie III and the Prime Minister.
- Tourism & Media Exposure: Our events are sometimes televised across Southern Africa, Europe and Australia, LORA’s events are a promotional boon for Lesotho’s tourism sector.
- Community Contribution:
- LORA collects small donations (around M100 per rider) during events like the Roof of Africa. During the pandemic, these funds supported several villages around Maseru by providing food parcels to affected families.
- Their efforts reinforce goodwill within host communities and encourage cooperation and safety during events.
History & Growth
- Founded in 1969, officially registered in Lesotho in 2007 to operate as an off-road motorsport association.
- Over the years, LORA has expanded its scope—from promoting youth participation in the sport to organizing multiple high-profile races and introducing new competition classes.