Marathon des Sables

30 March - 5 April 2008

More than 150 miles through the Sahara desert, against the clock in temperatures of up to 50C, carrying a week's worth of food on your back. At a total distance almost equivalent to six regular marathons, the Marathon Des Sables pits runners against the parched landscape of the Sahara in a gruelling test of endurance.

Competitors have to carry what they need to survive the race in a rucksack, including food, clothes, distress flare, medical kit and sleeping bag. Only water rations are provided by the race organisers. And when the competitors stop for the night, they have to prepare their own food — before snatching a few hours of exhausted sleep and getting up to tackle the next day of the six-stage race.

Stage 1      16 miles

Stage 2      21 miles

Stage 3      24 miles

Stage 4      51 miles (the big one)

Stage 5      26 miles

Stage 6      13 miles (the gentle jog to finish) 

When they are not slogging through sand dunes, competitors have to negotiate uneven, stony ground in the ever-present heat of the desert sun. Walking for long distances is not an option — because a competitor can be disqualified if they take too long on any single stage.

The following links provide an idea of the terrain and conditions...........

http://www.saharamarathon.co.uk/gallery_1.html

http://www.saharamarathon.co.uk/gallery_4.html

I am hoping to raise £10,000 of sponsorship for Wooden Spoon. Wooden Spoon’s mission is to give support to children and young people who are disadvantaged physically, mentally or socially.  By providing the capital to fund strategic projects, Spoon makes a long-term difference to young lives across Northern Ireland.

The following link gives a little more detail of the good work Wooden Spoon has carried out locally.....

http://www.woodenspoon.com/3_438.php

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page. Please dig deep and sponsor me online.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Wooden Spoon will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

So please sponsor me now!

If you want to contact me directly please email me to mboyd1@madasafish.com.

Many thanks for your support.

Michael