If you're out running this week and need a boost to keep you going, just say to yourself "I could be in the middle of the Marathon des Sables right now". This six-day, 156 mile run across the Moraccan desert is as tough as they come. You have to carry everything, and get through 6+ marathons in a week. Phew! Today was the longest stage - a 52-miler of heat and sand - and there is still plenty to come.
Lisa Smith-Batchen (who has competed many times, and won in '99) is tracking race progress on her blog if you are interested. She reflects back on her own experience, which sets a great background for understanding the unique challenges of this grueling race. You can also check out videos by stage on the official MdS Web site. If you want to know more about Lisa, check out the new podcast on EndurancePlanet.com.
The Dean Machine (aka Karnazes) has started his own "Desert Slam" that oddly doesn't include the MdS. He's at the Atacama Desert in Chile in right now, and you can follow along here.
Which is the toughest desert? Which is the toughest race?!? Honestly it boggles the mind just to think about toeing the line at any of these races.
SD
If you're out running this week and need a boost to keep you going, just say to yourself "I could be in the middle of the Marathon des Sables right now". This six-day, 156 mile run across the Moraccan desert is as tough as they come. You have to carry everything, and get through 6+ marathons in a week. Phew! Today was the longest stage - a 52-miler of heat and sand - and there is still plenty to come.
