About the Marathon Des Sables

The MdS is a 6 day / 230km endurance race across the Sahara Desert in Morocco, normally taking place at the end of March / beginning of April.

During this time the competitors (myself included!) have to carry all food, cooking equipment, food, survival equipment, etc over ground ranging from sand dunes to uneven rocky ground in temperatures upto 120°F.

Why I'm running the Marathon des Sables

I am taking part in Marathon des Sables for several reasons. Having undergone reconstructive knee surgery two years ago, I have regained the level of fitness I had previous to my injury, and I feel that it is time for a new challenge to train for. Although I have never taken part in a marathon previously, I firmly believe that I have the capacity, both physically and mentally, to complete this race. It will provide me with renewed motivation in my everyday training, whilst pushing me further than any previous event. The endurance training, as well as other aspects of training, that is part of my job as a Royal Engineer will prove very useful in the MdS, but above all, the will to continue no matter what, as an individual and as part of a team, will see us through the MdS.

Links

• www.saharamarathon.co.uk - More information about the MdS (you could run it too!)
• www.facingafrica.org - Helping to cure and prevent NOMA (official charity of the MdS in 2003)
• www.darbaroud.com - The organizers of the MdS
• www.bestofmorocco.co.uk - Tailor-made trips to Morocco (marathon not compulsory)