About the Mds - The Toughest Footrace on Earth
It covers around 252 km. (sections of 25, 36, 40, 84, 42, 25 km) run over 6 days (7 for some) - equivalent to nearly 6 regular marathons. In addition to that, competitors have to carry everything they will need for the duration on their backs in a rucksack (food, clothes, medical kit, sleeping bag etc). Water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint.
Participants experience mid-day temperatures of up to 50°C, running or walking on uneven rocky, stony ground as well as 15 - 20% of the distance being in sand dunes.
The heat, distance and rubbing trashes feet and may cause severe trauma if incorrect shoes and equipment are used. Mental stamina probably constitutes at least 50% of whether participants complete the distance or not. Physical fitness is important but don't underestimate the mental stress. Even if participants have run dozens of 26 mile marathons, this does not mean that they will automatically find the MdS easy - either way they will be planning to do lots of training prior to the MdS.
On the 4th day, we will set off across the barren wilderness to complete an 80-90 kilometer stage. Few people complete this before dark that evening and some will not come in till after dark the next night. This is followed by the 42km Marathon stage!!
The following film will give you an idea of what it is all about: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnMRjLFqQCQ&feature=related
Many other video films about the MdS can be found on www.youtube.com Just type "Marathon des Sables".
The brief slideshow below will give you some idea about the race. Please see the next page: "donate"