Dubbed 'The Toughest Footrace on Earth'

Welcome to the world of lunatics and masochists - don't take offence - it's the Marathon Des Sables …. A 6 day running race in the Sahara Desert starting on 4th April 2010

Why this IS the toughest footrace on Earth

It covers the 151 miles in sections similar to 20, 24, 28, 51, 26, 14 miles over 6 days - equivalent to 5 1/2 regular marathons. In addition to that, competitors have to carry everything they will need for the duration (apart from a tent) on their backs in a rucksack (food, clothes, medical kit, sleeping bag etc). Water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint.

Competitors will have to prepare all their own food throughout the race and experience mid-day temperatures of up to 120°F, running on uneven rocky, stony ground as well as 15 - 20% of the distance being in sand dunes.

The heat, distance and rubbing will trash competitors feet and may cause severe trauma if incorrect shoes and equipment are used. Mental stamina probably constitutes at least 50% of whether they will complete the distance or not. Physical fitness is important but don't underestimate the mental stress that they will endure. Even if they have run dozens of 26 mile marathons, this does not mean that they will automatically find the MdS easy - LOTS of physical and mental strength and training are required ..... hours and hours and hours of training is required throughout the winter months.

On the 4^th day, competitors will set off across the barren wilderness to complete a 45 - 50 mile stage. Few people complete this before dark and some will not come in till after dark the next night. This is followed by the 26 mile Marathon stage!! Its tough ...

.... this year is the 25th Marathon Des Sables so should attract lots of media coverage - especially as Madonna is also running .... and so is Quentin Somerset !

I have totally funded this challenge myself and I have chosen to raise money for The David Sheldrick Trust (www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org) - I had many deliberations about who to raise money for .... people charities, charities, cancer .... but this is one world, a beautiful world, shared by people, animals, trees etc ALL of whom need help .... otherwise generations to come will not be lucky enough to enjoy what we enjoy today.

The David Sheldrick Trust is a wonderful charity full of people who dedicate their lives to helping orphaned elephants and rhinos in Tsavo National Park in Kenya. Most of these orphans have lost their family because of human activity or poaching, and they are sensitive and traumatised young animals. Staff at the trust dedicate their lives to helping these beautiful animals ... please help by donating anything you can .... the trust will appreciate it, the baby elephants and rhinos will appreciate it .... and I will appreciate it ....

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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So please dig deep and donate now.