The Marathon des Sables is often described as, "the toughest footrace on Earth".
It covered about 250.7km (155 miles) ran over 6 days - equivalent to five and a half regular marathons whilst carrying a pack, wieghing about 11 Kg, over sand dunes, rocky desert, and stony ground. The total distance for the 2011 race was: Day 1, 33km; day 2, 38km; day 3, 38km; day 4, 82km; day 5, 42.2km; day 6, 17.5km.
It covered about 250.7km (155 miles) ran over 6 days - equivalent to five and a half regular marathons whilst carrying a pack, wieghing about 11 Kg, over sand dunes, rocky desert, and stony ground. The total distance for the 2011 race was: Day 1, 33km; day 2, 38km; day 3, 38km; day 4, 82km; day 5, 42.2km; day 6, 17.5km.
In addition everything that a competitor needs for the duration of the race, apart from a tent, must be carried in a rucksack (food, clothes, medical kit, sleeping bag, stove, fuel, etc). Water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint; we were given approximately 10.5 – 12 litres per day, which also has to be carried.
During the race mid-day temperatures can be up to 40°C (120°F), running or walking on uneven rocky ground, and 20 per cent of the distance is on sand dunes. On the 4th day, when you are already worn down by the distance the longest stage is set, which is normally about 52 miles. Few people finish this before dark although most expect to be running after sundown. This is followed the next day by a 42km (26.2 mile) Marathon stage.
The heat and distance will have a massive effect on the body and blisters are not uncommon. Mental stamina and determination is a must. Physical fitness is important but surviving mental stress is a key factor. The rules state a competitor will be disqualified if they require more than two intravenous drips. Luckily there is an insurance policy covering medical evacuation and corpse repatriation in the event of death!
Content on this page courtesy of Nick Hancock.
Images courtesy of Junglemoon.co.uk