The
MdS is an annual event that started over 20 years ago.
The race covers more than 150 miles across the Sahara
desert, run in stages over 6-7 days - equivalent to
5 1/2 regular marathons.
To add to the experience, competitors have to carry
everything they will need for the entire week, apart from
a tent (that means food and a way of cooking it, clothes,
medical kit, sleeping bag etc). Water is rationed and
handed out at each checkpoint. Mid-day temperatures are
expected to exceed 40°C, as competitors cross uneven
rocky, stony ground as well as 15 - 20% of the distance
being in sand dunes.
The
heat, distance and rubbing will trash your feet and may
cause severe trauma if incorrect shoes and equipment are
used. Mental stamina probably constitutes at least 50% of
whether people finish.
To
cap it all off, there is a double marathon stage
mid-week, which few people complete before dark that
evening and some will not come in till after dark the
next night. This is followed by the 42km Marathon stage!!
Fun, fun, fun!!