Marathon des Sables April 3rd 2026 – 280km Across the Sahara

In April 2026, Jonny Palmer of Convi Conveyancing will take on the Marathon des Sables Legendary — widely regarded as one of the toughest foot races in the world.

Over six days in the Sahara Desert, Jonny will cover approximately 280km in temperatures that can exceed 50°C. It’s a fully self-sufficient ultramarathon — carrying all food, kit and essentials — with only water and a shared bivouac tent provided.

This year marks the event’s 40th anniversary, and to celebrate, the notorious “long stage” has been extended to 100km.

This is not just a race.

It’s an expedition of endurance, resilience and mental strength.

Why Jonny Is Taking This On

When Jonny started his first business, he experienced a period of poor mental health. Since then, exercise has become a non-negotiable part of his life — not just for physical fitness, but as a foundation for mental clarity, stability and resilience.

Endurance sport mirrors business in many ways:

* Consistency over intensity

* Controlling the controllables

* Managing recovery

* Showing up when conditions aren’t ideal

* Playing the long game

Training and competing have helped him stay grounded while building and running a business. They provide structure, discipline and perspective — particularly during high-pressure periods.

He first heard about Marathon des Sables years ago and saw it as something reserved for elite athletes. When the opportunity arose with six months to prepare, he chose to say yes. It represents a once-in-a-lifetime challenge — testing not only physical capability but mindset under extreme conditions.

Why £10,000 for the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter

Jonny is proud to work within the mortgage and specialist finance community. The industry has provided support, opportunity and relationships throughout his journey building Convi.

This challenge is his way of giving back.

He is aiming to raise £10,000 for the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter — helping to expand mental health awareness, provide practical support resources, and continue breaking the stigma around mental wellbeing across our sector.

The Marathon des Sables is a test of resilience in one of the harshest environments on earth.

The funds raised will help ensure that people in our mortgage industry have the resilience, support and conversations they need — long before they reach crisis point.

If you would like to support Jonny’s journey — and help strengthen mental health support across the mortgage community — please donate.

Every contribution makes a difference.