Follow my progress on Facebook by clicking on the link and 'liking' my training page. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Team-Guy-MDS-2012/162006903892209#!/pages/Team-Guy-MDS-2012/162006903892209?sk=wall
Ok, this is it!!
In April 2012 I will begin what is widely accepted as the hardest footrace on earth, The Marathon Des Sables (Marathon of the Sand). The race is run over a 243km/151 mile course, in sections similar to 25,34,38,82,42,22km, over 6-7 days. The race takes place across a section of the Sahara Desert in Morocco, where temperatures regularly hit 120 degrees fahrenheit. I will carry everything that I will need for the duration (apart from a tent), in a rucksack (food, clothes, medical kit, sleeping bag etc). Water is rationed.
To prepare for this race, I am quite simply going to subject myself to some of the most excruciating training you could possibly wish to undertake. For each of the 151 miles of the race, I will have to complete at least 10 training miles. I will run in heat chambers, up mountains, in the rain, the cold, the dark, etc etc, you get the message. Its going to be challenging.
The Marathon Des Sables
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnMRjLFqQCQ&feature=related
In answer to the most asked question (Why?), there are two answers?
Firstly, to prove that I can! Secondly, to raise some money for two, important causes.
Please be advised that none of the money that you donate will go to pay for anything to do with the costs of the race etc. 100% of the money raised is going to the charities (and that’s a fact baby!).
East Cheshire Hospice
http://www.eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/default.asp
Not so long ago, I had an amazing Auntie Janet. She was a kind, patient, much loved member of our family. Her bravery when all seemed lost was a true inspiration.
Unfortunately, she got cancer and despite her constant enthusiasm and fantastic spirit, she reached the point where she needed specialist care. My beloved auntie Janet, died on Boxing Day 2010.
This story is repeated daily around the country. You may have experienced a similar story within your own family. Bottom line is that we love them and we want them to receive the best possible care.
Like you, most of my days are spent trying to earn a crust for myself and my family. I am making this small effort, so that the terrific hospice which has looked after so many loved family members in the past, can continue to look after so many more in the future.
They need £6,000 a day to stay open and they only receive 23% of their funding from the government. Lets smash it!
Help For Heroes
This should need very little in the way of introduction. The men and women of the armed services have made the most immense sacrifices on our behalf. They deserve our admiration and respect, but they also need some help. We can do a bit to support them in their hour of need, cant we?
http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/splash_what_we_do.html
Please dig deep and help out.
How to get involved
If I’ve sent you this and you own/ operate a business, or, if you work for a company. Please consider getting your company involved. If you want me to do anything for you, I will happily do so! (turn up and bore your staff rigid about training, sock choices, freeze dried food etc)
I have some space on my kit for logo’s, if you are interested in sponsoring a leg/arm etc. I know its a pain in the arse to do it, but please make the effort. It makes a huge difference.
If you are an individual, then please consider dipping in your pocket and pledging some cash. Pass the email to friends, colleagues, take a form to school, go through your little black book etc. Please, please put some extra effort in!
Even though its not until April next year, I began training a while ago. I am signed up, paid up and fully entered into this race. So get the ball rolling and motivate me with your messages of encouragement and your donations.
Cheers.
Guy
P.s. Last time I drive you all mad for money I promise (*refer to small print).
*Any promises, warranties, or guarantee’s provided, are completely null and void. Apparently I’m out of my mind (as everyone has told me), therefore, I cannot be held responsible if I were to decide, to say, run across the Arctic!
