La Sportiva PRODIGIO PRO – Shoe Review

Posted on April 24, 2025 by talkultra

It has been a little like Christmas lately with the arrival of new shoes for testing and the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro was highly anticipated. I got my hands on a pair at UTMB in 2024, sadly though, they remained in my hands and not on my feet.

So, the arrival of the Prodigio Pro was welcome.

In all honesty, it’s a stand out shoe for La Sportiva. For perspective, I have been using La Sportiva for years, they offer bullet proof mountain running shoes and models such as the Mutant, Jackal and the Cyklon have been in my rotation for years. They are durable and trustworthy BUT not the lightest or even the fastest options available.

Not sure how, but I missed the original Prodigio and when it finally came around to getting a pair for test, the Prodigio Pro was available. So, I jumped straight to the Prodigio Pro, so, any comments here cannot be related to the Prodigio, which I think is maybe a good thing!

First point – this feels like La Sportiva have released a fast, lightweight and arguably a super shoe for trails. Hence my comment ‘a stand out shoe for La Sportiva.’

The Prodigio Pro, for a mountain centric company, is a new approach.

The addition of PRO name signifies that this shoe is for faster workouts, racing or if you are like me, you just love a bloody good run shoe.

With 28mm cushioning at the front, 34mm at the rear and a 6mm drop, the Prodigio Pro sits in this wonderful middle ground of cushioning and drop.

The upper is unique, Power Wire. This upper looks like it was created via computer and then woven in a lab by some marvellous magic.

The outsole if La Sportiva’s own Friction White. I have to say, I love it hen brands make their own outsole. I am tired of Vibram being added to run shoes and frankly (hold your breath) it is not a good outsole when you are on wet rock or similar. I am amazed that NNormal could not come up with something better! And let’s face it, nobody can compete with VJ outsoles. But, La Sportiva do a good job.

The cushioning is nitro-infused which in all honesty I have no idea what it means BUT yes, it really works. The thing with cushioning is, and some shoe brands don’t seem to understand this, if you are going high with cushioning, you need to go wide with outsole/ footprint, otherwise you are running on an unstable double decker bus that is ready to roll at any moment – step in the horrendous adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra which proves that you don’t take a road shoe, make some tweaks and then call it a trail shoe.

What this shoe does not have is a plate – yipee!!!! Don’t get me wrong here, some ‘plates’ work, the Hoka Tecton X3 a great example. But mostly, a plate in a trail running shoe has been less than a positive experience for me and many others.

THE SHOE

They look fantastic, simple!

I have the red colour with LA SPORTIVA in yellow. I have to say, when I opened the box I was really sad they were not the classic black/yellow with a hint of red colours that kinda signify La Sportiva, but the red is cool.

My eye immediately went to the tongue, the sock like fit and then the cushioning.

The upper is pretty darn special, especially when you zoom in close. It’s like thousands of fine threads woven together in varying thickness to add structure. It’s like Matryx which we are seeing on many shoes BUT it is completely different. As the name says, it is POWER WIRE which provides great fit, great comfort and excellent breathability – the shoe was a little cold running in winter! Toe protection is adeqaute, maybe a little minimal, but, for a trail shoe, perfectly fine.

Slipping the foot inside, the sock like fit and padded tongue are amazing. I got exactly the same feel from the Hoka Tecton X3, this put a big smile on my face. When tightening the laces, the padded tongue provides superior comfort on the navicular bone, a typical point of irritation.

As with all La Sportiva, you need to be careful with sizing, this shoe in particular will require you to have the correct size because of the way they fit. I would start by going a size larger as a start point. If you take a UK10, try a UK11.

First run and I had a big smile, the cushioning is bouncy and fast with a great propulsive phase. If you have the fitness, cadence and run form, this shoe will fly along. It’s without doubt an awesome trail racing shoe. If like me you move a little slower, there is considerable comfort and life here.

The footprint is good which provides stability. However, with the sock like fit and the cushioning, when moving on technical terrain, foot hold and security is compromised. I therefore see the Prodigio Pro as much more a trail running shoe and not a mountain running shoe. There is no rock plate, not a deal breaker, but I do wonder if this would benefit the shoe and help on more mountainous terrain?

The outsole is in line with the usage of the shoe, 4mm lugs certainly sit well with the intentions of trail running and faster running. It’s grippy, durable and gladly covers most of the outsole to provide grip in most scenarios. But, on wet rock, grip is not where I want it to be. Once I slip, my confidence goes and when I can no longer rely on an outsole to do it’s job, my speed drops.

CONCLUSION

I absolutely love the Prodigio Pro. You may think from my review that I am not sold on this new incarnation from La Sportiva, I am. It is an absolutely fantastic trail running shoe for single-track, dry conditions and trail. The Prodigio Pro really excels on rocks and boulders too. But, if the trail is very technical and particularly, if it is wet, then the Prodigio Pro is compromised. Quite simply, if I use this shoe is the right conditions, they are superb. They have a very similar feeling to the Hoka Tecton X3 which I also love. These shoes feel like they were made for racing in the USA, I know Anton Krupricka helped the development, and I would imagine at Leadville or Western States, these shoes would fly along.

The release of the Prodigio Pro coincided with the VJ Ultra 3, in testing I was actually alternating days, VJ one day, La Sportiva the next and this was ideal to asses both shoes. In a way, they are very similar but equally, they are very different. The VJ has more cushioning, 30/38 in comparison to 28/34, a higher drop, 8mm instead of 6mm, the outsoles, 4.5mm to 4mm for the La Sportiva.

I got many questions, ‘Which would I choose?’ I refused to answer initially as both put a huge smile on my face and my initial thought was, you know what, I would be happy with either.

But, I am in a lucky position to test and compare and with that in mind, if I was going out to buy a pair of shoes tomorrow I would choose the VJ Ultra 3. Why? Ultimately, the VJ has the grip for all conditions and that is really important for me. The foot hold is superior in the VJ particularly in mountain and technical terrain. I think in the long term, the VJ will be more bullet proof in the terrain and conditions I run in. Finally, I feel that I can use the VJ on ‘all’ terrain, whwereas, I feel the Prodigio Pro is compromised on more technical and mountain terrain.

BUT and wonderful final but, if I was going out for a faster trail run on groomed trail, the Prodigio Pro is hard to beat.

So finally, is the Prodigio Pro for you? I would think about where you are running, what conditions you are running in and what you need from a shoe. I am extremely happy with mine and I would have no issue slipping these on for ‘any’ run despite the reservations for some conditions – the Prodigio Pro is great looking, has incredible comfort, a lovely lively ride and on the right feet, they are fast.

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

VJ ULTRA 3 – SHOE REVIEW

Posted on April 23, 2025 by talkultra

In a world of the big shoe brands, think adidas, Brooks, Asics, Nike and of course, the list goes on. I love the fact that, without doubt, the best trail and mountain running shoes come from a small Finnish brand, VJ SPORT.

It’s a bold statement huh? But, if you have been reading shoe reviews on this website for many years, you will know, that I have a love for VJ shoes.

I am not going to write an article here about the brand, its history and do a PR job for them, I honestly don’t feel I need to. I feel safe in the knowledge that if anyone purchases a pair of VJ’s based on one of my reviews, they very quickly agree with me. Over the years I have received countless messages in the vein of, ‘I had no idea about this brand until I read your review and now I have theses shoes, it’s a game changer, the fit and in particular, the outsole are amazing!’

With a strong history and foundation in Orienteering, VJ made a name for itself in Scandinavia as the ‘go-to’ shoe. Jon Albon (yes, the TNF athlete) helped shift the awareness to a worldwide platform with his success in OCR using the iRock shoes and then in the world of trail, ultra and skyrunning with the XTRM, MAXx and the ULTRA.

In all honesty, despite huge growth, huge success and repeated accolades around the world for having ‘the best grip on the planet,’ VJ are still a niche brand and a secret weapon. I honestly believe, that in technical, mountain, rocky, and slippery terrain, a runner with VJ shoes has a distinct advantage that may well make a difference between gaining a podium place or not. This is especially rings true, here, in my home of Norway, where the mountain terrain is harsh, slippery and very demanding.

With all the above in mind, VJ keep their shoe line up simple for trail/ mountain and Ultra:

iRock4 – Mega grip, precision feel, for intense mud when grip is a priority. The 8mm lugs are like claws.
Spark – Minimal race shoe with 5mm lugs, 11mm/16mm cushioning.
Lightspeed – Fast and light, a racing trail shoe with the ‘new’ SuperFOAMance cushioning at 23/29mm and 3.5mm lugs.
XTRM2 – A fast mountain shoe for short to middle distance with 6mm lugs and 10/14mm cushioning.
MAXx2 – Cushioning and grip with a lower profile, ideal for the mountains. With the ‘new’ SuperFOAMance cushioning at 25/31mm and 4mm lugs.
Ultra 3 – As the name suggests, a long distance shoe with cushioning. With the ‘new’ SuperFOAMance cushioning at 30/38mm and 4.5mm lugs.
Flow – A new shoe for all terrain which I have yet to test. 25/35mm and 4.5mm lugs.

In addition to the above there is a winter shoe, the XTER that is also available with spikes, called the ACE, for ice and snow. There are countless spike/ winter models HERE.

VJ ULTRA 3

This is not the first ultra shoe for VJ, on the contrary, they released the ULTRA and the ULTRA2. Both of these shoes I have run in and tested over the past few years. They both had all the perfect VJ characteristics, namely, amazing grip and incredible foothold with Fitlock. However, for me, the cushioning never felt ‘bouncy,’ and this always shifted me to use the MAXx.

In 2023, VJ released a winter shoe called the ACE, this shoe was a spiked shoe for snow/ ice etc. It was a complete game changer! The shape of the shoe was completely different, the toe box was wide and expansive (just like ALTRA) to allow the toes to move and keep warm during winter conditions. In addition, the ACE had new cushioning called SuperFOAMance. I said in my 2023 review, and I quote, ‘I want this shoe without studs for dry trail running.’

Well, I gave that feedback to VJ and they listened, the VJ ULTRA 3 comes from the ACE development.

However, I need to mess up this and segway to the LIGHTSPEED and MAXx2. Between the ACE and the release of the ULTRA 3, we had the Lightspeed and MAXx2 launches. Again, two amazing game changers for VJ. The LIGHTSPEED is a super fast and responsive trail racing shoe, think the Golden Trail Series. The MAXx2 (think skyrunning) builds on everything that was great in the original MAXx but takes it one step further. Both these new shoes had the SuperFOAMance cushioning, which, for me, it is incredible. I have done big mountain days in Spain, Italy and Norway in the MAXx2, always great comfort, great foot hold and of course, amazing grip. The MAXx2 is for me, without doubt, the best mountain running shoe out there. I just can’t wait for VJ to bring the cushioning to the XTRM too so when I need a more aggressive outsole, I have the option and the same cushioning.

So, here we are with the VJ ULTRA 3.

The ULTRA 3 has what I loved in the ACE and the MAXx2 and has given me a shoe that merges these two shoes into a product designed for long, big, ultra days in the mountains and on trails.

The ULTRA 3 is the most cushioned shoe VJ have made, 30mm at the front, 38mm at the rear and an 8mm drop puts this shoe in an area that all the other big brands are dominating – think Hoka.

So, why would VJ try to penetrate this market?

Quite simply, they are offering a shoe that the other brands do not offer… They are bringing their unique USP’s of foot hold and grip, adding cushioning and providing a very specific mountain/ ultra shoe.

The ULTRA 3 was tested at the 2024 UTMB on the feet of Juuso Simpanen, he placed 19th.

The 4.5mm lugs make the shoe ideal for trail and mountains, especially when encountering wet and slippery rock. The Superior Contact outsole featured on every VJ shoe is the best on the market – no other shoe or brand has the grip of VJ.

The toe box is wider, a ‘4’ on the VJ fit scale, 5 being the widest.

The SuperFOAMance cushioning is a game changer, it has elevated the VJ shoes to a different feel and responsiveness that was not there previously. That is not to say that there was anyting wrong with the MAXx or Ultra 2, that is reflected in that these shoes are still available to purchase. However, the new cushioning, for me, has given the MAXx2 and the ULTRA 3 the ability to ‘always’ use these shoes. Previously, I would think about my run and the terrain and decide what was the best shoe, the SuperFOAMance has eradicated that problem.

So, when would I use the ULTRA 3 and when would I use the MAXx2?

It’s a good question and one I find easy to answer. If I am heading out for a trail run be that in the mountains or say, in the forest, the ULTRA 3 would be my choice. The cushioning help smooths out the trails, provides comfort and despite the extra stack height, I have no worries over stability. Should I go to the mountains, with far more challenging and technical terrain, the MAXx2 is my choice. The caveat with both the ULTRA 3 and MAXx2 is neither of them will offer super grip in mud, this when the XTRM is the option and why (please VJ) I hope they release an XTRM with MAXx2 cushioning and XTRM outsole.

THE SHOE

Next level cushioning without losing the core basics that make VJ shoes special, basically, great foot hold and an awesome outsole.

On first appearance, the ULTRA 3 looks rather bulky and heavy. They are not heavy at all, my UK10 weigh under 290g.

Drop is 8mm, perfect for a long distance ultra shoe and the cushioning is 30mm at the front, 38mm at the rear and the fit is slightly small, so, if you are usually a UK9, I would recommend a UK9.5 etc. As is always the case, you need to try on and make sure of the fit for yourself.

I have found with VJ shoes I always lock lace. I did my first run in the ULTRA 3 without lock lacing and the second with lock lacing, I prefer to lock lace. Just a heads-up as I feel you should try both options to see what works for you!

One of the key selling points of any VJ is how the shoe holds the foot, this comes from Fitlock which, when the laces are tightened and adjusted correctly, holds the foot perfectly, especially noticeable when on technical and demanding trail.

The upper is in one piece made of multi zone woven mesh with varying density. They are breathable but equally, in colder weather, they are not too cold. There is excellent protection at the front with a great toe bumper.

The rear collar is where a noticeable change has been made from the ACE winter shoe. The ACE was well padded and very comfortable. Here, the rear collar is lightly padded with a slight raised section inside to stop heel slippage. On the MAXx2 I initially had an issue with the right side of the heel cup being a little high which irritated my ankle bone, that is present here in the ULTRA 3. I have found that after a few runs this softens and becomes no problem. On my first run in the ULTRA 3 I got a hot spot at the rear – I never get blisters! So, this rang an immediate alarm bell. However, I changed socks for my 2nd run and then had no issues, so, sock choice may well be an important consideration.

The tongue is thin. But I have had no issues with any tension, hot spots or pain.

The toe box is, for VJ, wide and this will be a game changer for many people who have found VJ too narrow in the past. It allows great toe splay and comfort without losing a precision feel when required.

Cushioning is a breakthrough for VJ. As I found on the ACE, the SuperFOAMance was something very special, here in the ULTRA 3, it takes the shoe to another level of comfort without being squidgy or losing ground feel.

There is a rock plate which in many ways has three purposes: It protects the foot. It helps protect the cushioning. It also provides some torsional rigidity (a little like a plated shoe) without having the downsides of a carbon plate or similar.

Outsole, it is easy, best grip on the planet. Nothing grips like the VJ butyl outsole. The 4.5mm lugs are maybe a surprise? Would I prefer 5mm or even 6mm? Yes! but maybe the 4.5mm is the best choice for a shoe to manage ‘all’ surfaces. Ultimately, the foot print is wide, front, middle and rear making contact with the ground superb. VJ also realise that if you increase stack height, you need to increase footprint size for stability. A lesson that adidas Terrex need to learn with there woefully unstable Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra which is on technical terrain dangerous IMO.

IN USE

After three runs, I had to tweak certain elements to make the ULTRA 3 perfect for me. Firstly, I lock laced. I changed socks to Injinji. I tweaked the lace tension for the comfort/ feel I prefer.

One I had the three items above dialled, the ULTRA 3 became perfect.

The cushioning is a game changer for VJ but it sits in its own place. Two current outstanding shoes I love, the Hoka Tecton X3 and the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro both have lively, bouncy cushioning. The ULTRA 3 is not like this. It’s more controlled and therefore, I prefer the ULTRA 3 in more mountainous and technical terrain. I find there is more precision and reassurance. Any roll from the additional stack height is balanced and controlled, this also comes from the amazing Fitlock.

Grip is the best, and I say that with complete confidence. I would compromise cushioning and comfort for VJ grip. I have done this in the past, for example, using the MAXx for really big mountain days when I knew I needed grip due to wet rock or similar. Now, the ULTRA 3 gives me the cushioning and comfort with grip.

CONCLUSION

The ULTRA 3 is a game changer for VJ. This shoe will now make VJ grip available for longer races such as those in the UTMB calendar or similar. I do feel the ULTRA 3 slots in the more mountain ultra terrain than just ultra trail. There is a durability, a strength, a build quality to the ULTRA 3 that says, ‘I am here to take a battering and protect you!’ One thing is for sure, if you are looking for a shoe with cushioning, grip and comfort, the ULTRA 3 should be at the top of your list.

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS THE LEGENDARY 2025 : RACE SUMMARY

Posted on April 17, 2025 by talkultra

The sand is settling, the 2025 and 39^th edition of Marathon des Sables The Legendary is over.

Quite simply, a hugely successful edition with 95% completion rate and good time vibes felt throughout the Sahara and beyond.

OVERVIEW

Cyril and Olivier with Michael from the USA – Photo by Ian Corless

The transition from 2023 to 2024 was not an easy one. The take over of MDS from Patrick Bauer and into the hands of Cyril and Olivier had created some concern and anxiety. Most certainly, the build up to the 2024 (38^th) MDS had many concerns for participants that were vocalised on social media. However, after the 2024 event, all these worries and concerns were extinguished with an incredibly successful event and high finish rate. You Can read Marathon des Sables – The Legendary : 2024 Summary HERE should you wish.

Nothing like a MDS start – Photo by Ian Corless

From May 2024 to April 2025 the build up to the 39^th Legendary edition was seamless. The successful running and completion of MDS (3-stages over 4-days at 70/100 or 120km) events in Cappadocia, Fuerteventura, Jordan, Morocco, Atlantic Coast and the introduction of Trek and Handi only confirmed the growth, development, upward learning curve and the MDS team bonding and progression.

All of the concerns and worries for the 38^th edition of Legendary played out on social media were not present for the 39^th edition. There is a couple of reasons for this I believe:

The 38^th edition had been a huge success and therefore worries and concerns were answered.
The pro-active communication from the MDS team improved considerably.
Runner testimonies from the 2024 event confirmed that the ‘new’ MDS team and the changes made were all positive.
Evolution, not revolution was the quote that Cyril Gauthier had used in 2023 this was played out in 2024 and then consolidated upon in 2025.

Arrival in the desert – Photo by Ian Corless

THE 2025 EVENT

Welcome to the Sahra – Photo by Ian Corless

Post-race questionnaires are extremely important for the MDS team. Cyril and Olivier very much take all the comments, absorb them, digest them and then move forward with new plans. If a new plan does not work and the participants confirm this, then it is changed. If a new plan works, it is retained. There are no one-stop easy solutions, MDS is an ever-growing and ever-changing event that must constantly be a chameleon to the ever-changing demands and needs of participants.

TRAVEL

A key change for 2025 was in transportation. Two key points:

The core MDS team, based mostly in Paris, travelled to Morocco via train, boat and coach, taking 3-days and not using airplane travel. For 2025, this was a one way journey, a test, to see how feasible and practical this form of travel is. The general consensus from those who did it is/ was extremely positive. General comments were around this being an adventure in its own right, a brilliant opportunity to share more time with colleagues, a great opportunity to work while travelling and so on… I think we may well see this grow into something bigger for 2026!
In 2024, plane travel arranged by the MDS organisation was reduced to a minimum. For 2025 it was eradicated all together. Therefore, participants could no longer take the option of a MDS charter plane but had to arrange flights themselves. This is no big deal with so many flight options available, especially with MDS offering a free transfer coach service from Marrakech to Ouarzazate and post-race, a free transfer service back to Marrakech.

SELF-SUFFICIENCY

Catering by the MDS organisation once in the Sahara was removed in 2024, this was reasoned for 2025. To clarify, when the buses leave Ouarzazate for the desert, self-sufficiency begins for the travel day, the fist night in bivouac, the following day (admin day), the evening and then, the following day, the race starts and ‘race’ self-sufficiency begins. There is a difference between the two forms of self-sufficiency as the travel day and admin day you can bring as much or as little as you like. Quite simply, it’s not part of the mandatory race minimum requirement of 2000 cal minimum per day. You can bring tinned food, drinks, wine, beer, caviar…. Whatever you wish! It’s a no brainer to be able to look after your own food requirements and quite simply it greatly reduces the possibility of food related health issues that could potentially ruin a race.

ADMIN DAY

The procedures for admin day were changed for the 2024 edition and they were a huge success. This system was retained for 2025 making the process seamless, fast and considerably less painful than the procedures that had gone before.

BIVOUAC

In principle, it may well look the same, however, there are changes for the very observant. Firstly, the circles that make bivouac are smaller and tighter making the camp much more of a community. In 2025 there were new ‘women only’ tents for those who would prefer this option. On some days, in the middle of bivouac, yoga/ stretching was possible, circle of legend talks and yes, even a big fire.

WATER

The provision of water was drastically changed in 2024 and this was retained for 2025. During the race there is no rationing of water. As you arrive at a CP, water is decanted into your bottles via MDS blue jackets who pour the water from jugs. This water comes from large 5ltr bottles. Quite simply, you can have 2x 750ml bottles filled, you can then drink one and it will be refilled if required – a game changer.

Post-race you are provided with 1 large 5ltr bottle, the is rationed. So, this water must provide hydration post-race, be used for dinner/ breakfast and it must be used to fill your bottles to take you to CP1 the following day.

ICED WATER

CP’s have MDS orange or blue jackets who will pour iced water over your head to enable cooling. It’s a small simple step that makes a huge change that ultimately helps facilitate completion of the Legendary.

ORANGE AND BLUE JACKETS

The MDS would not happen without this amazing team of people. The energy, the enthusiasm, the constant good vibes make the runner the number one priority and YES, these people make the difference between finishing and not finishing. They are 100% switched on with the sole purpose to get every runner across the line. You can get a feeling of how important the blue and oranges are by taking a look HERE on Facebook.

Orange jackets are the medical team who make sure that participants are looked after 100%. They are there for you, no matter what the issue. You will see them on the course at CP’s, in fast response vehicles, in 4×4’s and of course in the medical tents in bivouac.

SAFETY

Any MDS event has risks associated with it. We are often in harsh environments, in challenging conditions, we have varying climate conditions and of course, we have runner’s and staff pushing the limit of what is humanly possible. Safety is taken very seriously and how safety is managed is an ever-changing and developing process.

Legendary had more fast response vehicles, more medical professionals on course, there were 10 medical professional runner’s who did the course and there was a new mobile medical unit for 2025 which is state of the art. There was also the inclusion of the ‘Orange Squad’ – a medical team who do the course the opposite way so that they are able to see runner’s coming toward them and should there be a problem, they can help immediately.

Each runner is issued with a Spot Tracker and this allows the MDS team to monitor each runner on the course and importantly, they have an SOS button which if pressed, will receive a medical response vehicle in minutes.

Feet are always an issue and of course, the medical tent is there to facilitate foot repair in bivouac. It’s important to be self-sufficient and look after your feet yourself, however, as and when necessary, a medical professional is always there to help.

RACE BRIEFINGS

Race start times are very important and pre 2024, the race start time was somewhat unpredictable. This changed in 2024 and was upped to another level in 2025 with every stage starting exactly on time! It may sound like a small thing, but knowing you will be underway as scheduled makes planning so much easier. If it says 0600 start, you know it starts at 0600.

Another change was the addition of an English speaking announcer – yes, it was me! This was the idea of Cyril and we instigated and tested this at Atlantic Coast in January, it worked. So, for Legendary and moving forward, an English briefing will take place and then be translated into French and not the other way around. Stage 6 race briefing may well go down in history as the best. Mood was already high with the final stage ahead, nut hen we had participant, Reujen Lista join us on stage for a ‘live’ version of Highway to Hell – it was epic!

Highway to Hell ‘live’ – Photo by Florian

WEATHER

As always, weather plays a key part in any MDS event. However, we are most definitely feeling the impacts of ever changing climatic conditions. It was always assumed that MDS will be hot and unbearable, history is showing that is not the case. Recently, particularly in Morocco, we have experienced difficult weather: MDS Morocco in October had torrential rain and flooding, the recent MDS Atlantic Coast in January had cooler temperatures, some rain and the last day had full-on sand storms. The 2025 Legendary started calmly and tranquil, it was looking to be a classic race, it was sunny, hot, but not too hot and the winds were relatively calm. That all changed come stage 4 (the long day) with cloudy skies and cooler temperatures in the day. During the night the winds increased, rain came and without doubt, from 2100 hrs the conditions were difficult and challenging. Especially for those who were moving through the night looking to get the long day done. CP’s had cold participants taking shelter looking to get warm and continue the journey. This weather continued through the rest day. Stage 5 had a mix of everything but the heat never came and stage 6 was cloudy, cool and with intermittent rain. There is a very big lesson that needs to be learned, I did say this before Legendary, but now, post-race, I can only say it more, you need to be prepared for bad weather! A good jacket is now essential, so much so, I do think that it should be added to mandatory kit. I also think it wise to make sure that you are able to keep key items, such as sleeping bag, dry during bad weather. Many had wet sleeping bags during the long day which can effectively make them useless, depending on what filling is inside.

THE ROUTE

Legendary is now 6-stages over 7-days and this is a huge difference. Pre 2024, the race was 5-stages and stage 6 was a non-times ‘solidarity’ stage for charity. It’s hard to argue against the charity side of this, however, a non-timed 6^th stage was pointless.

The race is now 6-stages timed and raced.

For 2024, the ‘long day’ was moved to stage 3. For 2025, it was moved back to stage 4. The main reason for this was due to the course and the start/ finish point.

2024 participants, as always, tried to stress that the 2024 edition was/ would be harder than 2025. Of course it’s nonsense. Comments like, ‘Argh, but here was more vertical gain in 2024!’ were unfounded as the people who made these comments had obviously not done due diligence, the reality is the 2024 Legendary was 252.9km’s and the 2025 event was 250km. Vertical gain was almost identical, 2024 was 2788m+ and 2025 was 2710m+

In many respects, the 2025 edition was more ‘classic MDS’ with a marathon after the rest day.

The route was notably different for some key reasons. The Sahara is vast and of course, needs to be explored more. Due to runner demand and logistical reasons, certain features have become almost ‘essential’ when running Legendary. However, Cyril and the team wanted to change that and therefore, there was no Jebel El Otfal in 2025, there was a return to Merzouga Dunes and while the route travelled in similar areas of the Sahara, the track was approximately 80% new. There were some great ‘new’ additions such as the huge dune on stage 4 and the stage 5 route was very special.

THE RACE

Rachid El Morabity once again took victory securing his 11^th and in the process he set a record for the most victories. It’s an incredible achievement to have this level of consistency over so many years. It’s fair to say, the level of competition at the front end of the race was less in 2025. The only real person who could upset Rachid was Hamid Yachou, he unfortunately withdrew mid-race with injury. We could argue all day if Mohamed El Morabity could beat Rachid, the simple fact is, it would not happen. However, as we look ahead to 2026, will Mohamed take over the Rl Morabity reigns? Mohamed is 10-years younger than Rachid and therefore, he has great potential ahead. Also, the inclusion of the 3^rd and younger El Morabity, Mbark, should not be looked over.

For the women, 2023 Legendary champion, Maryline Nakache returned and she was on fire. No, she was untouchable. For perspective, Maryline finished 3^rd on GC for the long day and at the end of the race, was 4^th on GC with the closest time to Rachid, by a woman, in the history of the race. Quite incredible. Aziza El Amrany won the race in 2024 and for 2025 she was 2^nd, she looked great throughout, despite an arm injury, however, she was no match for Maryline. Tomomi Bitoh placed 3^rd, she has placed 3^rd before. However, Annelies Brak would have placed 3^rd had she not received a 2-hour time penalty for non-compliance of mandatory kit.

Rachid completed the race in 20:55:47 and Maryline in 23:57:20. A total of 847 participants crossed the finish line, the last male Tomohito Hirai in 75:49:27 and the last woman, Nemoto Yuzuki in 74:31:01.

Results HERE

POST RACE

Reujen Lista rocking the awards – Photo by Ian Corless

Transfer back to Ouarzazate was easy and seamless with coaches filling with participants and leaving asap. Of course, a hotel, many showers, buffet food and a nice clean bed always feels amazing after the Sahara. The awards dinner turned into an impromptu rock concert with a participant, Reujen Lista, singing 3 songs on stage, the last, of course, was Highway to Hell. It was a fantastic way to end what was a legendary LEGENDARY.

DAILY 2025 SUMMARIES

MDS The Legendary Stage 1 HERE

MDS The Legendary Stage 2 HERE

MDS The Legendary Stage 3 HERE

MDS The Legendary Stage 4 HERE

MDS The Legendary Stage 5 HERE

MDS The Legendary Stage 6 HERE

Image Gallery HERE

Marathon des Sables Website HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS The Legendary 2025 – Stage 6

Posted on April 14, 2025 by talkultra

The GOAT of the Sahara – Photo by Ian Corless

The 2025 and 39th edition of MDS The Legendary came to a conclusion with a 21.1km stage under cloudy skies with occasional rain.

A hard won reward – Photo by Ian Corless

The weather did not dampen the spirit of the runner’s though, they were elated, excited and happy knowing that no matter what, today, they would cross the final finish line and receive a medal.

The atmosphere on the start line was electric, especially with an unplanned live version of Highway to Hell by Reujen Lista.

The stage concluded at the iconic Merzouga Dunes and in reality, all the racing was done, at least for the top-3 positions in the men’s and women’s races.

Rachid El Morabity would be crowned champion for the 11th time, a record!

Maryline Nakache would be crowned champion for the 2nd time, this year though, her victory is extra special, she ranked 4th overall, an incredible result. Also notable, her time, was just over 2-hours slower than Rachid, 23:57:20 to Rachids’ 20:55:47.

Mohamed, Mbark and Rachid, unstoppable brothers – Photo by Ian Corless

For perspective, the last finisher was Tomohito Hirai in 75:49:27 and the last female finisher was Sarah Thomas Britton 74:01:23.

An incredible 847 were crowned ‘Legends’ when they crossed the line, a 95% success rate.

The 39th edition will be remembered for a calm ‘classic’ MDS start, temperatures were good, the wind was low and the skies were blue.

However, on stage 4, the long day, the winds increased under what was a cooler and cloudier day. By 2100 hours the wind was roaring, sand was blowing everywhere and suddenly heavy rains came making the conditions horrific for those out on the course and difficult for those in camp.

The cooler weather stayed for stage 5, however, it did brighten in the afternoon only to become windy once agin.

Stage 6 was cloudy and wet at the start and it remained that way for most of the day. The rain came, went, and came back again.

In brief summary, the 39th edition route introduced competitors new areas of the Sahara and stage 2 was considered the hell stage with a great deal of soft sand. Conditions were variable, despite the strong winds and some rain, cooler temperatures certainly made the race more manageable.

FULL RESULTS HERE

Photo Galleries HERE

The emotion on the finish line was electric, as always, from first to last, a whole rane of emotions were witnessed, the glow of a medal making the 6-stage, 250km journey a memorable life changing one.

The awards ceremony in Ouarzazate, may well have been the most memorable yet. The film was shown to a huge applause and then, we were all treated to a live performance by Reujen Lista who performed three songs, the last one, of course, Highway to Hell!

Marathon des Sables Website HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS The Legendary 2025 – Stage 5

Posted on April 11, 2025 by talkultra

The rest day allowed participants an opportunity to relax, look after their bodies and recharge ready for stage 5. However, sand storms throughout the day caused consistent problems, gladly, they eased when darkness came.

With 2 starts for stage 5, 0630 and 0800, bivouac awoke early with the eagerly anticipated marathon stage.

Enthusiasm was high with the long day done! It may sound crazy, but the minds of the runners now think, ‘it’s only a marathon today!’

The early part of the day was cloudy and cool, allowing for some great running temperatures.

Around 0900 the sun started to appear but was constantly arriving and disappearing and on occasion, small amounts of rain would fall. As the day progressed, once again the winds increased for some challenging conditions.

The route, new for MDS took participants through 3 key sections, Znigui Dunes, a mountain pass j. el Beg’e and finally a return to Znigui Dunes.

The men’s race was as expected, not a race. The top-3 contenders ran together for much of the day. It was only in the latter stages that Rachid and Mohamed pulled away from Ahmed to finish in 3:26:15 and 3:26:55 with Ahmed 4:26 later for a finish of 3:30:41.

For the women, Aziza pushed hard from the front, constantly fighting and never giving up.

However, Maryline looked calm and relaxed, she is in incredible form this year. Eventually she caught and passed Aziza to open up a gap of 03:37 to finish in 03:45:27.

Aziza crossed the line in 03:39:04 and as expected, Annelies Brak charged looking to get back time after a 2-hour penalty and regain the 3rd position. She finished 3rd on the stage in 04:14:22.

Tomomi Bitoh who is in 3rd overall finished 6th losing time to Annelies and 4th place on GC, Francesca Canepa had a tough marathon stage finishing 12th in 05:00:08 which has now moved Annelies to 4th on GC.

With 21.1km’s tomorrow, Tomomi has a substantial 40-minute lead over Annelies. Can Annelies do something remarkable?

Full results are HERE

Men ranking HERE

Women ranking HERE

Marathon des Sables Website HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS The Legendary 2025 – Stage 4

Posted on April 10, 2025 by talkultra

The feared ‘long day’ finally arrived, an 82.2km point-to-point adventure that would take the runner’s on a voyage of discovery as they explored the limits both physically and mentally.

A day with two starts, the majority of the field departing at 0600 and the top-50 inc the top-5 women leaving at 0730.

Darkness and the glow of head torches accompanied the early starters to CP1 and then they were confronted with the Ouzina Dune at 13km’s, a steep wall of sand that had to be climbed and then descended.

The terrain now mixed some sand, rocky plateau, stones and it remained this way all the way to the finish line. Nearly all participants were very happy with the terrain exclaiming it was ‘runnable,’ especially with overcast skies and lower temperatures.

As darkness came, the weather changed and the wind began to increase from the south. Storms arrived before midnight and they persisted for hours, on and off, creating tough sand storms, at time hard rain and quite simply, extremely challenging conditions.

The arrival of a new day gave life to the runner’s who were still on the close, approximately 100.

Pushing to the line, they endured physical pain, mental fatigue and they willed their bodies to achieve a remarkable finish. The last participants, Fung Yee May and Mathew Barrie, arriving just before 1300 in the afternoon, 30-hours, 36-minutes and 52-seconds. For perspective, this was 22-hours and 41-minutes after the first woman and 23-hours and 28-minutes after the first man.

At the front of the race, the top male contenders, Rachid, Mohamed and Hamid ran together to the large dune at 13km’s and then Rachid opened a gap.

Mohamed marked and ran with Hamid enabling Rachid to pull away. The gap opened up. By CP5 the gap was 8-minutes.

By the finish line, Rachid’s margin opened to 10-minutes 09-seconds bringing hime once again in to the race lead position.

Mohamed and Hamid – Photo by Ian Corless

At CP 5 it was apparent that Hamid was having some problems. He took longer than usual and he watered his legs. Mohamed left alone.

Later, Hamid withdrew from the race with injury allowing Ahmed Ouikhalfen to move into 3rd.

Stage 4 results:

Rachid El Morabity 07:08:13
Mohamed El Morabity 07:08:22
Ahmed Ouikhalfen 08:15:45

For the women, Maryline Nakache ran a masterclass race that may well rank as one of the best days ever for a female participant. She pushed the pace and not only did she finish almost 1-hour ahead of the 2024 MDS The Legendary champion, Aziza El Amrany, Maryline placed 3rd overall on the stage in 07:55:35 – remarkable!

Aziza El Amrany ran a strong day, she looked great, but she was no match for the French woman, she finished 2nd in 08:49:20.

Annelies Brak, once again had a great day finishing 3rd in 09:43:18, however, the previous day, she failed a mandatory kit check and received a 2-hour penalty, a crazy mistake which will no doubt cost her a podium place.

Tomomi Bitoh, who has been on the MDS podium previously ran a solid day for 4th in 10:02:07 and this result moves her to 3rd on the female ranking.

Stage 4 results:

Maryline Nakache 07:55:35
Aziza El Amrany 08:49:20
Annelies Brak 09:43:18

With 2-stages to go, 42.2km and 21.1km, there is much to race for, especially in the women’s race. Maryline and Aziza are secure in 1st and 2nd, however, 3rd is open for a challenge, just 1-hour separates Tomomi, Francesca Canepa and Annelies.

OVERALL RANKING after Stage 4

Maryline Nakache 18:18:38*
Aziza El Amrany 19:55:33
Tomomi Bitoh 23:00:51

*Note – Maryline is 4th on GC.

Rachid El Morabity 15:48:29
Mohamed El Morabity 15:52:16
Ahmed Ouikhalfen 17:13:48

Tomorrow, stage 5, a classic 42.2km marathon with 424m+ which after the long day, will come as a welcome ‘shorter’ distance.

Full results are HERE

Men ranking HERE

Women ranking HERE

Marathon des Sables Website HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS The Legendary 2025 – Stage 3

Posted on April 8, 2025 by talkultra

After a tough and challenging stage 2, participants were happy for a shorter day of 32.5km’s for stage 3 ahead of the feared long day of 82.2km’s on stage 4.

With less soft-sand, the running would be easier, however, there was still 468m+ to test the mind and body.

On the stroke 0f 0730 the runner’s were released under cloudy skies and cooler temperatures. However, the sun and heat soon appeared making for another challenging day.

For the men, the El Morabity brothers today once again played with tactics.

Hamid Yachou started fast and opened a gap, he was pursued by Mohamed and behind, Rachid ran easy.

By CP1 Hamid had a strong lead, Mohamed was closing on him but Rachid was some 6-minutes back. Would Rachid close the difference?

After CP3, Hamid and Mohamed were side-by-side, the younger El Morabity policing the breakaway and ensuring that all times he would control the race.

By the time Rachid arrived, the gap had not closed and it became obvious that today Rachid would relinquish the overall lead playing a tactical game with stage 4 tomorrow.

At the close of the day, the male top-3 ranking is as follows:

Mohamed El Morabity 08:33:54
Hamid Yachou 08:38:46
Rachid El Morabity 08:40:16

For the women, Maryline Nakache ran a more relaxed stage keeping Aziza El Amrany close throughout the day. A sensible move with the long day tomorrow, any energy saved can be called upon for the 82.2km’s.

Ragna Debats once again ran in 3rd place and Annelies Brak and Tomomi Bitoh were 4th and 5th.

Gemma Game took it easier, again, looking to save energy for stage 4.

With 3 stages complete, the women’s top-3 is as follows:

Maryline Nakache 10:23:03
Aziza El Amrany 11:06:15
Ragna Debats 11:43:47

An epic morning start- Photo by Ian Corless

Full results are HERE

Men ranking HERE

Women ranking HERE

Tomorrow, stage 4 is 82.2km’s and will have 2 starts, 0600 for the masses and 0730 for the top-50 and top-5 women. With a cut-off time of 34-hours, the conclusion of the stage will come the following day, Thursday Apr 9th.

Marathon des Sables Website HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS The Legendary 2025 – Stage 2

Posted on April 7, 2025 by talkultra

The mood in bivouac was incredible after stage 1. Many happy runners felt relaxed with the race started and one completed stage. With nerves and anxiety settled, everyone was eager to continue the journey with stage 2.

With 40km’s and 614m+ the day was going to be a considerably harder challenge with 8km’s extra and almost double the vertical of stage 1. For the front of the race this would equate to one extra hour, for those towards the back, considerably more time on the feet.

Wiyh an 0700 start and a slight wind from the east, the runner’s were treated to cooler temperatures for the first 3-hours and then heat started to rise and by mid-afternoon, the temperatures hovered around 30-degrees.

Early action came from Mohamed El Morabity for the men and Aziza El Amrany for the women. Of course, the main protagonists were not far behind.

Maryline Nakache, Ragna Debats and Gemma Game followed Aziza.

For the men, Hamid and Amed ran side-by-side and then Rachid was in 4th just a minute back.

Passing through the early CP’s it was between CP2 and CP3 that Rachid made a move for the front and he pulled away.

Behind, Hamid was in a Mohamed and Amed sandwich, he was marked constantly and of course, Rachid continued to move ahead, reclaim lost time from stage 1 and win convincingly to provide enough margin to lead the race.

With 2-stages covered, the top-3 men are ranked:

Rachid El Morabity 05:54:35
Mohamed El Morabity 05:55:53
Hamid Yachou 05:59:40

Maryline Nakache is on fire this year, the 2023 champion started slowly but once in gear she was on fire, so much so she dominated the stage for the women and finished 6th overall and is now 6th on GC too – impressive.

Aziza El Amrany, the 2024 champion, battled hard, but it was impossible to match the pace of the French woman.

Previous MDS champ, Ragna Debats was in 3rd place ahead of Annelies Brak and Gemma Game.

With 2-stage complete, the women’s top-3 is as follows:

Maryline Nakache 07:07:27
Aziza El Amrany 07:48:31
Ragna Debats 07:58:51

Full results are HERE

Men ranking HERE

Women ranking HERE

Tomorrow, stage 3 is 32.5km’s and no doubt, for the majority, will be a day to move easily and efficiently saving as much energy as possible before the intimidating long day for stage 4.

Marathon des Sables Website HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS THE LEGENDARY 2025 – STAGE 1

Posted on April 6, 2025 by talkultra

The wait was over, after 2-nights in bivouac, nearly 1000 participants were released into the Sahara at 0730am to the sound of ‘Highway to Hell!’ The 2025 MDS The Legendary was underway.

Anticipation was high and the enthusiasm electric on the start line. For many, the MDS The Legendary is a life time dream, reflected with 80% of the start field first time participants at the event.

With 32km’s to cover and 312m+ of vertical gain, the stage was designed to ease the participants into the 39th edition, the time allowance, 9-hours and 10-minutes.

Sunrise was spectacular and wind blow the participants from behind for the first half of the course, sadly, it would be a headwind for the return.

As expected, Rachid El Morabity lead the charge from the line with Hamid Yachou close. For 2025, Aziz Yachou will not race, Rachid’s greatest rival.

Rachid leads Hamid early on – Photo by Ian Corless

Behind, Amed Ouikhalfen, Mbark El Morabity and Mohamed El Morabity followed.

For the women, the 2024 Legendary champion, Aziza El Amrany set the pace at the front.

She was followed by the 2023 Legendary champion, Maryline Nakache with Gemma Game and Tomomi Bitoh following.

The pace at the front was fast, very fast and the main contenders were at CP1 in close to 30-minutes. Rachid pushed the pace opening a gap and constantly looking behind to asses the damage.

Rachid’s brother, Mohamed, was now moving through the field looking to make contact at the front.

Aziza was pushing hard, but Maryline was closing the gap having settled into her pace. Ragna Debats, 2019 Legendary champion was also easing into the race looking to gain ground on Gemma Game.

At the front, coming into CP3, Mohamed was now running with Rachid and Hamid was chasing, the brothers, once again were playing the tactical game to secure another victory for Rachid.

Rachid and Mohamed – Photo by Ian Corless

In the closing kilometers, Mohamed opened a gap and won the stage in 02:20:29, Rachid finished in 02:21:37 and Hamid 02:23:11.

I would read nothing in the victory of Mohamed, it is not a reflection of greater ability over his brother Rachid, purely a tactical game to secure victory for the elder brother and a record 11th title.

Maryline and Aziza ran side-by-side matching each others stride perfectly approaching CP3, would the elastic snap?

Yes! Maryline opened a gap and pushed the pace winning in 02:58:22 and 6th overall.

Aziza faded in the final km’s and crossed in 03:08:12.

Ragna finished 3rd in 03:17:14, and with this podium, we have 3 past MDS Legendary champions battling for the 2025 title.

The terrain of the day was classic Sahara, a mix of flat rocky plateau, small sand and rock climbs and a mix of small dunes. A great introduction.

Mood throughout the race was high, everyone was happy to have just started the 2025 journey, the anticipation high for the 5-stages to come. The youngest competitor 18, the oldest 76, a true reflection of everything that is great about the sport.

Full results are HERE

Men ranking HERE

Women ranking HERE

Tomorrow, stage 2 is 40km’s and we leave the bivouac of the last days to a new bivouac in a new part of the Sahara. A point-to-point day that will test everyone with a great deal of soft sand.

Marathon des Sables Website HERE