Not one to shy away from challenges throughout my life, I am excited to be taking part in the Marathon Des Sables 2012.  I have waited several years to get a place in what some say is ‘the toughest foot race on earth’ and  I am delighted that my challenge will also help raise funds for local people.   I am part of the legal team within Maersk Oil and Cornerstone have been our charity of the year since 2011.  When I discovered they were planning to raise funds for a new residential development and create homes for people with disabilities it was clear to me that I wanted my challenge to support their efforts.  I not only hope my challenge is a success and I make it 'home to where my heart' is but I also aim to really kick-start this fundraising appeal and make a difference to my local community.

 

I will have to prepare all my own food throughout the race despite having run through mid-day temperatures of up to 120F, as well as 15 - 20% of the distance being completed in sand dunes.

 

The Marathon Des Sables covers 243km/151 miles run over 6 days - equivalent to 5.5 regular marathons.  In addition to that, I will have to carry everything I will need for the duration of the race in a rucksack.  Water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint. 

 

The heat, distance and rubbing will inevitably take its toll on my feet with blisters being a major concern.  The MDS is not about running marathons - it’s about endurance and testing individual’s mental and physical stamina in an ultra extreme environment.

  

It would give me an enormous boost during training and during the event itself if you would sponsor my chosen charity, Cornerstone.  They aim to raise £50k for a home for life so please help me raise my target. I really appreciate any donation you can make and many thanks for your contribution.