Run 270km… in up to 50 deg C heat… through sand dunes… for 6 days back-to-back… Why would anyone do this?

As a kid I remember hearing about the ‘Marathon des Sables’ (MDS Legendary). A race across the Sahara Desert, self-sufficient, with everything you need on your back – I thought they were mad!

Flash forward 30yrs – a friend mentioned that she had signed up and was trying to find someone crazy enough to join her in 2026. So it began...

I will be running through the Sahara Desert, taking on the 40th anniversary MDS Legendary. Apparently, participants had asked for more challenge and more sand, so this celebratory year they have increased the long day to 100km - I certainly didn’t ask for that!

So why compete in the MDS Legendary? I love challenges, testing my limits, and this will certainly be a challenge… I love exploring, and this will take me on an adventure through the Sahara. And it’s a great opportunity to raise money for a super charity.

I will be raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust. A charity dedicated to providing support for young people with cancer. I sadly lost my Dad to cancer 20yrs ago and more recently my Aunt. Having teenage(ish) kids, I can't think of anything more challenging than living with cancer as a young person, so keen to support this great trust who dedicate their time to supporting young people through this incredibly difficult time.

The MDS will not be easy, it will be punishing. I know I will find my limits, and it will test me physically and mentally. But knowing that with your sponsorship I am supporting the Teenage Cancer Trust will be a great motivator. Many thanks for your support!