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Marathon Des Sables challenge

Paul Ruff is raising money for Peninsula Foundation
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Marathon Des Sables · 19 April 2007

The Peninsula Foundation supports medical research and education at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry. It is a centre of medical excellence, leading on internationally competitive research into an array of conditions and diseases that affect people today.

Story

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

Well - this is the big one. The Marathon Des Sables - the toughest foot race on earth. It covers 243km/151 miles (in sections similar to 25, 34, 38, 82, 42, 22 km) run over 6 days (7 for some) - equivalent to 5 1/2 regular marathons.

I will have to prepare all my own food throughout the race and will experience mid-day temperatures of up to 120°F, of 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 will trash my feet and may cause severe trauma if incorrect shoes and equipment are used. Mental stamina probably constitutes at least 50% of whether I will complete the distance or not.

On the 4th day, I will set off across the barren wilderness to complete a 45 - 50 mile 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!!

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Peninsula Medical School Foundation 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!

Many thanks for your support.

Donation summary

Total
£2,079.40
+ £259.63 Gift Aid
Online
£1,075.50
Offline
£1,003.90

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