Following on from the success of the 38th (2024) edition of Marathon des Sables – The Legendary (summary here), today the dates for 2025 are announced:
April 4th to 14th 2025.
Will Rachid return in 2025 for an 11th title?
The timings will be as follows:
Apr 4 – Arrival in Morocco and meet in Ouarzazate for onward transfer to B1.
Apr 5 – Admin day.
Apr 6 – Stage 1
Apr 7 – Stage 2
Apr 8 – Stage 3 *
Apr 9 – Stage 3 continuation or rest day *
Apr 10 – Stage 4
Apr 11 – Stage 5
Apr 12 – Stage 6 and onward travel to Ouarzazate
Apr 13 – Free Day and Gala Evening Presentation
Apr 14 – Onward travel
* Based on ‘the long day’ coming on stage 3.
Currently, it is not possible to register for 2025, but entry will open on JUNE 19th 2024.
These are exciting times for the MDS brand and it is highly anticipated that entries for 2025 will flood in after the success of the most recent event which concluded just weeks ago.
Rajaa HAMDAOUA placed 4th in 2024.
WHAT IS NEW?
PRICE
Well, first of all, the price. For 2025 there will be no additional price for UK entrants. In past years, UK entrants have paid an increased price due to staying at the Berbere Palace Hotel. This hotel will now be an ‘upgrade package’ which will bring a smile to many a UK entrant, for multiple reasons.
PRICE FOR THE FIRST 500:
€3,690/person
and €3,890/person later.
THE UPGRADE PACKAGE with Berbere Palace Hotel
€4,090/person for the first 500
and €4,290/person later.
Both offers are available to everyone, regardless of their country of residence.
Susan Grimes from the USA.
NO CHARTER FLIGHTS FOR 2025
The meeting point will be in Ouarzazate on Friday morning, April 4, 2025.
Ouarzazate airport Fly to Ouarzazate before the race and spend one or more nights in a hotel at your expense.
Marrakech airport Fly to Marrakech the days before the race and go by *shuttle to Ouarzazate.
*Shuttles will be organized on the morning of April 2 and 3, 2025, between Marrakech and Ouarzazate (5-hour journey).
Timetable for the Marrakech / Ouarzazate shuttles on April 2 and 3 : 07:00 am: From the center of Marrakech (meeting point at the Kenzi Rose Garden hotel). 10:00 am: From Marrakech airport. 12:00 pm: From Marrakech airport.
The return trip at the end of the MDS follows the same logic.
If you wish, you can take advantage of the bus service provided between Ouarzazate and Marrakech. These buses will leave Ouarzazate at 06:00 am on April 14, so you’ll need to book a return flight from Marrakech after 2:00 pm.
A unique experience
THE EVENT
Will remain similar to the 2024 38th edition and in summary:
The total distance of the MDS The Legendary will be about 250km’s, divided into 6-stages. The exact route and distances are given at the latest in the road book which is distributed in Morocco on arrival and transfer to bivouac 1.
Self-autonomy (food) is required from immediate arrival at B1 and then race self-autonomy starts at the beginning of stage 1.
The 2024 edition was as follows:
Stage 1: 31,1 km
Stage 2: 40,8 km
Stage 3: 85,3 km (the 3rd stage takes place on 2 days)
Stage 4: 43,1 km
Stage 5: 31,4 km
Stage 6: 21,1 km
CP’s with water and iced water to cool the runner.
The MARATHON DES SABLES – The Legendary is a self-sufficient adventure. Competitors must carry all their equipment and food, except the water and the tent. Check-points are located approximately every10 km. Post stage, participants receive a water ration when arriving to the bivouac, for the evening and the morning.
Have peace of mind and benefit from free postponement insurance up to 7 days before the event, included in your registration.
A mythical crossing of the desert, 11 days of adventure in Morocco, including 9 days in the desert, a course of about 250 km divided into 6-stages, to be done by walking or running.
MARATHON DES SABLES – The Legendaryan extraordinary race and adventure.
The elation of the finish
Taking place in the southern Moroccan Sahara since 1986.
Raidlight as a brand have been synonymous with desert racing for over 20-years, it was the brands USP and even today, it is a the core of the business founded by Benoit Laval in 1999.
It was around 2006/ 2007 when the ‘Olmo’ pack was created for Italian legend, Marco Olmo. A ground-breaking ultralight pack designed to carry many items with bottle holders on the front. From here, the rest is history with a range of packs and apparel that are specifically designed for stage and multi-day racing in hot environments such as the Sahara. A range of specific products can be seen HERE.
Ultralight packs, front packs, desert hats, gaiters, sun protect long-sleeve tops, tyvek top and pants and now a DESERT SPECIFIC SHOE.
In 2019, Raidlight created their first shoes. A bold move in a market that is saturated with choice, especially when one considers the R&D and manufacturing costs.
The recent Ultra 4 shoe with 6mm drop, 4mm outsole and increased cushioning has now been developed to provide the ultimate, one-stop shoe for desert terrain. The ULTRA 4 DESERT PROTECT.
What is a specific desert shoe?
Running in a desert, sandy or harsh environment, even snow, brings a challenge for a shoe. Shoes are designed to be comfortable but also breathable. The downside of breathable is that while it allows hot air to escape the shoe, this also allows sand and debris to enter the shoe. This is not a good idea in a desert environment. For many years, the best option has been to have velcro sewn and glued to your preferred shoe and then add a gaiter /such as THIS) to not allow sand to enter the shoe – it works.
There is a cost involved to this:
Shoe 150.00
Gaiter 25.00
Sewing/ glueing velcro: 60.00
Total cost 235.00+/-
For countless editions of desert races all over the world, this system is tried and tested. It really does work. The only downside, one needs to be careful that the addition of velcro to a shoe does not alter alter its shape and feel, so, once you have velcro added ALWAYS test and make sure the fit is the same.
ULTRA 4 DESERT PROTECT
Many brands have played with the idea of producing a specific desert shoe and notably in the last 5-years I have seen brands such as Salomon, Hoka, Merrell and La Sportiva specifically adapt existing shoes to make prototypes for elite athletes. We have seen this work specifically for Julien Chorier (Hoka), Mathieu Blanchard (Salomon) and Ragna Debats (Merrell).
Why have the brands above not released a shoe to market?
I guess the simple answer is, a desert running shoe is a very specific market and in real terms, it’s a small market. So, financially (maybe) the figures just don’t add up?
Raidlight on the other hand already produce gaiters, they also already offer a velcro stitching service (here), so, by adapting an already existing shoe with the addition of velcro and a specific gaiter makes sense.
Especially when this is all offered for 150.00 euro in the ULTRA 4 DESERT PROTECT.
I received my shoes in advance of Marathon des Sables, perfect timing. I wasn’t running the race but I was in Morocco before the race running everyday and in addition, I was working everyday during MDS in the same environment as the runners. Ideal.
THE SHOE
My first surprise was the weight of the shoe, they look heavy but they are not! For a standard UK8/EU42 they were 280g, for my UK9.5/ EU44 they were 295g with the velcro and 325g with the gaiter.
Not knowing how the shoe fit was my biggest concern, especially for a desert/ sand shoe. There is no need for ‘bigger’ shoes just because you are going to a desert (read a article HERE). Quite simply, if a shoe is too big your foot moves inside the shoe, a moving foot creates friction, friction equals blisters. A thumb nail of space above your longest toe is ideal, and when I say longest, this may not be the big toe! One consideration is width, make sure you have enough room for toe splay. Feet may go wider in the desert, so, be considerate of this.
The ULTRA 4 DESERT PROTECT were true to size and I therefore went with my standard UK9.5/ EU44 based on advice from Raidlight and they were perfect.
The colour way of red/blue/black really works, I like them. The red/black gaiter is also a nice touch.
If you have velcro sewn/glued on a normal shoe, the velcro will go completely around the perimeter of the shoe, this ensures sand/ debris can enter at no point. The downside of this is that the velcro can get damaged at the front when hitting rocks or on challenging terrain.
Raidlight have got around this by bringing the velcro up the shoe to just below the laces. This I love.
To combat sand entering the shoe where there is no gaiter, Raidlight use MATRYX material. In a way, this is similar to Gore-Tex, keeping debris out while allowing the foot to breathe. It works, I had no sand enter my shoe on any occasion.
The gaiter attaches as standard and comes higher up the leg with velcro fastening and the option to adjust how tight at the top of the leg. I actually never opened mine. I fastened them together the first time and then removed and added them like socks when in use. This worked for me and ensures the velcro has a longer life. You just simply need to remember to put the gaiter on first, then socks, then shoes and then fit the gaiter.
The lacing works really well providing plenty options for great foot hold and the storage pocket at the top of the tongue is great for keeping laces out of the way. Once tied I had no reason to adjust them when in use and they never came undone, partly due the laces being flat and not round.
A neutral shoe, sliding them on, there was an instant comfort feel. These are not bouncy shoes but they are cushioned and comfortable with notable excellent grip at the heel. When running, there is good propulsion from behind the metatarsals and notably there is excellent protection from rocks and debris. The addition of elastic (M-lock band) on the tongue allows for flexibility and support.
The toe bumper is solid and offers great protection from rocks and debris.
The outsole with 4mm lugs offers a great middle ground and works exceptionally well. I have not tried them on wet ground or rocks.
With 19mm cushioning at the front and 25mm at the rear, the 6mm drop sits, once again in the middle ground and is ideal for long distance running.
IN USE
Have to say, I was surprised. My first sand run felt very comfortable and the shoe performed perfectly. They provided excellent comfort, great protection, plenty of toe splay and the gaiter with the Matryx upper allowed no sand to enter.
The downside? They were warm! To be fair though, comparing to my other shoes (Hoka) with sewn velcro and the addition of a Raidlight gaiter, the differences were comparable.
The more runs I had in them, the better the feel cam and I would recommend looking to put 30-50km’s in them before using them for your chosen race or adventure. I do caveat that by saying they were great out of the box, but certainly several runs did allow them to just fit and conform to my foot.
I have no negative comments. With 150km’s now in the shoe and a complete battering in the Sahara, the shoes offered all day comfort without a trace of sand entering the shoe.
I will also add, this is a new shoe. They only came available just before the 2024 MDS. Despite this, I saw many pairs out ion the Sahara. I spoke to everyone I could and the feedback was the same, perfect shoe, great comfort and no sand inside.
CONCLUSION
Shoes are personal and the most important thing in any adventure or race is a shoe works for you and causes no problems or issues. This is especially important in a race like MDS when so many other factors and variables come in to play. The ULTRA 4 DESERT PROTECT offers a one-stop solution to a problem and if this shoe works for you, it comes highly recommended. It will certainly be a highly recommended shoe of choice for this environment in the future.
“Unrivalled comfort, cushioning and dynamism. Designed and engineered to go the distance, making them the shoe for ultra trail runners. The midsole incorporates dual density technology, offering a perfect balance between cushioning and responsiveness. The lightweight design reduces fatigue while providing protection and support. Comfort over longer distances, while maintaining optimum stability over a wide range of terrain.”
The 2024 edition of Marathon des Sables – The Legendary is over. The statistics say this is the 38th running of the race, but in reality, it is 37 plus 1 or maybe, it is really just edition 1 of a new era of the race?
There is no getting away from the fact that the departure of Patrick Bauer and the arrival of new organisation caused anxiety, worry, and many questions. In real terms, there may have been many runner’s deciding to ‘wait and see’ what happened in 2024 and if all goes well, they would enter 2025.
The worry is over.
Statistics show MDS had 867 start the race and only 60 DNF’d (did not finish) – These statistics alone are a success!
Laurence Klein, MDS legend.
Nothing is ever simple and straight forward, so, lets look at the 2024 edition.
MDS
Every year, after each edition of MDS, I write a summary article. Some are more in-depth that others. For 2024 I provide a summary here and in-time, I may well come back to this post or write a new post based on comments and feedback, so please feel free to add your experiences in the comments.
Yoann Stuck on Jebel El Otfal
There were many changes for the 2024 edition and in the build up to the race, a familiar comment was heard:
‘If it ain’t broke, don’t break it!’
Cyril Gauthier
To some extent, after 37-years, this was a valid comment, however, Cyril Gauthier, Ferdinand Charriau and others at MDS HQ thought differently. There was no spur of the moment and rash thought process, on the contrary, ideas and protocols had been tested on the HMDS format. They had seen success there and the idea, quite simply, was to bring that to MDS The Legendary.
It was a success!
No better feeling, the medal.
All the the pre-race doubts, questions, frustration and at times anger soon disappeared as the race and the organisation unveiled the 2024 race and it’s format.
Cyril had used the term in 2023, ‘This is not revolution, but evolution.’ As the 2024 race progressed, this evolution slowly but surely converted the 867 and convinced them that the new format was a winner.
Oxo cube at CP7 on the long day, just over 10km to go.
It’s still MDS.
It is still a multi-stage run.
It’s still in the Sahara.
It’s still tough and still around 250 km’s in distance.
BUT, and this is a big BUT, there are complete changes in the way the race is now run.
THE CHANGES
Communication:
The changes start before we even get to the desert with years and finally months of planning and tweaking. I think the MDS team will confirm here that communication, information and news could have improved in the early stages but as soon as the race came close, there was a significant improvement, so, we can expect that to not only continue but get better moving forward.
Travel:
Arrival in Morocco and bust transfer to the Sahara
Travel plans and options changed in an effort to be more environmentally friendly and therefore charter planes were reduced to two and I think it is fair to say, that we can expect to see them removed completely for 2025? With travel options increasing all the time, it is now very easy to travel to Marrakech and therefore, travel options will and can be expected to be more flexible for future years. However, to facilitate travel to Ouarzazate and the race RV point, buses were provided from Marrakech and post-race for return travel.
Self-Sufficiency:
Self sufficiency is a key to the MDS experience
No catering was provided before the race as in past editions, therefore, runner’s had to provide there own food before race self-sufficiency started. While some would have preferred a catering option, ultimately it was no problem and no issue. One thing was for sure, there was little stomach upset in camp using this method. That alone is confirmation enough.
Admin Day:
Admin day was fast, slick and efficient.
Admin day in the past has been a long and laborious process that has taken 3-hours for some. This was changed completely and it was an absolute success with average processing times of 30-minutes. It was simple, fast, efficient and a game changer that resulted with less time in the sun for runner’s, less time on feet and little to no stress.
Camp:
Legends in the Sahara
The bivouac looked the same but there was a significant change, the circles of tents were made tighter and smaller making for a much smaller space in the middle. This made for easier comms and a more comfortable, homely feel. Each evening there was a small talk called ‘Legends’ that introduced 2/3 significant people from MDS history in a casual Q&A format. This was followed with relaxation and yoga.
Early starts:
The long day with an 0600 start for the majority of the race, the top 50 started at 0800
Depending on the stage and the distance, race start times each day were earlier to allow for 2/3/4 hours of significantly cooler temperatures. The earliest start 0600, the latest start at 0800 for the top-50 on the long day.
Water:
No water rations and no 1.5ltr bottles.
Water was in abundance, not rationed and in addition to CP’s typically every 10 to 12km’s, additional water stations were added on certain stages.
Ferdinand Charriau at CP1 on stage 2
Cold water:
No better way to cool down
Each significant CP had cool iced water that was poured on necks and heads to help with cooling.
Staff:
It’s a team effort
Volunteers made the event a success with dedication, commitment and enthusiasm.
Safety:
Medical teams were at CP’s, running the race and in fast response vehicles.
Much of the above: early starts, more water, water stations, cold water come in the ‘safety’ section but the race had medical runners, more fast response vehicles and more medics/ doctors.
Safety is a key element of MDS
Stock cubes:
Salt tablets were replaced with mandatory stock cubes. This caused huge controversy before the race, but, during the race I heard many comments such as, ‘stock cubes, who’d have thought it, I have grown to love them!’ Now of course, MDS is a self-sufficient race and just as one would train, test equipment, research food and so on, salt/ electrolyte replacement should also figure in this. If that is stock cubes, great! If not, make sure you have what you need. Again, only 60 DNF’s reflect that whatever was happening was working.
“I enjoyed them as either a side dish to my lunch and dinner or, on the long stage, during the stage itself. They worked for me, in addition to my own nutrition. No issues with dehydration or hyponatremia, and enjoyed something aside from the mostly sweet race nutrition.” – Stephanie Tang
“I used them in the evening, 1 as a hot “brew” and the other inside my evening meal. I did supplement the day with 1 salt tablet per hour. On the day I didn’t use 1 tablet per hour I cramped up significantly. I was on the fence of not using them, however I see the benifit and actually looked forward to my evening Knorr brew. Everyone is different but that’s just what worked for me, knowing my body and stomach.” – Maximus Baximus
Foot care:
Foot care
As per usual, foot care was provided and as the race went on, the demand increased. It’s important to remember, MDS is a self-sufficient race and so therefore, an element of self-care is required. This also helps avoid any wait. However, for those who had bad feet and needed to wait for attention, care was given to all these that needed it.
“It was my experience that you could see a medic if you were prepared to wait for one, there was also medics overseeing the self care side of things too.” – Matt Pearson
“…when you just ran 85k you don’t want to threat your own blisters.” – Stijn Vin Cauter
Tracking:
As per usual, each runner had a tracker for safety and so loved ones at home could follow.
The race format:
2024 was the longest race in MDS history. It was also 6 race days and not 5 with a charity stage. So, on paper, the race was harder…? The feared long day, typically on day 4 was now on day 3. This allowed for runner’s to be fresher, but to counter balance this, packs were heavier. In past editions, with the long day done, there was ‘just’ a marathon to do. Now, with the new format, there was still some 100 +/- km’s to go over 3 stages! The typical format of the race has been to run through the desert, point-to-point resulting in 5/ 6 bivouac. For 2024, just 3 bivouac were utilised allowing the race to concentrate on what many considered, the best part of the Sahara – it worked!
Stage 3 was stunning
MDS The Legendary
Every year, MDS has challenges. If we look at the last 4-years, the challenges have been very significant:
2020 Covid.
2021 Intense heat, norovirus and the highest DNF rate in MDS history.
2022 Cooler temperatures and even some rain.
2023 Intense heat and sandstorms.
It was very clear that the new management wanted to learn from 2020 to 2023 and make sure that the 2024 edition, as much as possible, facilitated increased safety and a higher completion rate.
Nothing like the emotion of the finish.
The figures speak for themselves, just 60 DNF’s. A success!
Now of course, many factors come into play when discussing DNF rates and to be fair, 2024 was a good year with no excessive heat and the new protocols as discussed above. Having experienced 11 MDS, 2024 was not a hot year. For sure it had its moments, particularly on stage 3 and stage 4 between midday and 5pm, but with earlier starts, typical temps of 30-33 degrees and often wind, conditions were good.
A trickle of cold water at each CP makes a huge difference
There was an abundance of sand storms and a day did not pass without the presence of wind, some days were worse than others. However, there was never one of those full-on white out days.
Wind and sand on admin day
The route was a classic, taking in ‘the best’ of the region, the long day in particular was beautiful. Some days were easier than others, ultimately though, the route was a showcase for Morocco and the Sahara.
Epic landscape
Everyday, CP’s and the finish line was a party with motivated volunteers and music. The final day finish, at times, was like a rave with a DJ and a full-on party mode.
“First time running, so cannot compare, but absolutely loved the event . From start to finish, I have nothing but praise. Amazing staff and volunteers.” – Julianna Ambrosi
What a team of volunteers from all over the world
To sum up, the runner was placed first (correctly) and the organisation facilitated, as best as possible, a finish.
“First time for me so don’t have any comparison but having UK volunteers was great. Especially at the checkpoints when a friendly face and some words of encouragement instantly made things better.” – Si Brewington
The after party, awards, film show and celebration was top notch – a great finish.
THE RACE
Rachid, king of the Sahara
Rachid El Morabity and Aziza El Amrany were crowned champions. Rachid obtaining his 10th title and Aziza gaining her first.
The El Morabity once again used tactics for victory, Aziz Yachou could only watch on and fight as hard as possible, hoping that one of the duo would have a bad day… Bad days never came. Mohamed ‘played’ a bad day on stage 5 to relinquish time for his brother. It was just a game, just a like chess or a domestique in cycling.
It was this close
For the women, Aziza El Amrany was in a race on her own. She was head and shoulders above the competition and gave a dominant performance.
Aziza flying
Aziza Raji, who has won MDS before and earlier in the year won Omand Desert Marathon placed 2nd and UK’s Gemma Game, once again placed 3rd. This Gemma’s 3rd time placing 3rd.
This is not an in-depth analysis of the 2024 MDS The Legendary, that will follow with more feedback and analysis. However, with thoughts and ideas fresh in the mind, it’s good to have immediate analysis and put thoughts down. I think I can safely say that the race can be summed up in one word, SUCCESSFUL.
What have I missed? I know I will have missed something, so, please let me know.
There may have been some controversy, worries and anxiety in the build up but quite quickly that evaporated.
MDS The Legendary may not be perfect yet, but for the runner, the 2024 edition came close.
If you hesitated placing an entry for 2024, my advice is to act quick for 2025. I firmly believe that once participants share their positive experiences, entries will fly in.
CALL FOR COMMENTS
I welcome you to share experiences, the highs and the lows. The positives and any negatives. The MDS will grow and become better with more feedback.
The 2024 Marathon des Sables – The Legendary is over. The race concluded with stage 6 and 21.1km to cover; challenging terrain of stony plateau, small dunes, an ascent to Jebel Mefatigbzef, wadi, and a palm grove finish – the MDS medal hard earned! Rachid El Morabity and Aziza El Amrany the champions!
Camp life
Once again it was an early start as everyone had to prepare for an 0630 start time.
Yoann Stuck
The last day was all about survival and getting the job done as quickly as possible, crossing the line and receiving the medal. The finish line for 2024 incredible, it was full of tears, emotion, relief and laughter; all accompanied by a DJ and party tunes. Quite a way to finish the race.
The medal
However, while the women’s race was decided early on and the top-3 places confirmed, the men’s race was a potential nail biter.
The El Morabity brothers had played their trump card on stage 5 and now Rachid could smell a 10th victory, however, he would need to perform at a top level to make this happen and make sure Aziz Yachou did not attack and pull back time.
The trio started fast and it stayed that way for the duration of the 21.1km’s. Aziz looking to break Rachid.
No matter how Aziz tried, Rachid responded and as the finish came in sight, the 9 times MDS champion pulled away, removed his Moroccan flag from his pack and secured a 10th victory. Mohamed eased up making sure that Rachid pulled back the required seconds to win overall, but not so many seconds that he would lose 2nd place.
Aziza El Emrany finally took the MDS top slot after many years coming close. It was great to see and one that is really deserved, she was in incredible form this year. Aziza Raji placed and for the third time, Gemma Game placed 3rd again.
The story though was all the legends who crossed the line and achieved greatness in making it through the Sahara to place a medal around their neck.
The 2024 edition has proven to be a memorable one, with a new organisation and many changes, many feared the race would lose something, not so. The opposite, the general consensus has been approval and open appreciation for what repeat MDS participants have said, ‘the best yet!’
As in any race, some don’t make the finish. For the 2024 MDS, at the time of writing, only 60 are DNF’s, this is from 867 starters.
B3 and back to B3, the heart stage at 31.4km’s takes place in a new area for Marathon des Sables.
Sunrise
One could say that this is a classic MDS stage with a little of everything and while the participants may be feeling a little too tired to enjoy the views, there is much to appreciate here.
Laurence Klein
Jebel Tafeguenat a highlight followed by wadi, stony terrain and small dunes. CP’s ease the journey at 6.8km, 13km and 23km.
Easy start to the day
The day started under cloud and cool temperatures after a night of sandstorms. The early pace easy, with Rachid El Morabity and Mohamed somewhere in the middle of the pack. However, this soon changed with Aziz Yachou dictating the pace.
Rachid El Morabity followed and the race was on.
Was this the day that Mohamed El Morabity would relinquish his lead and allow his brother the opportunity for a 10th MDS title? The simple answer, yes!
Full flight
As the stage progressed, Rachid and Aziz pushed a relentless pace and Mohamed dropped farther and farther back.
Mohamed watched the race pull away, strapping on his leg…
Within the final 8km, the duo of Rachid were at full pace, it was superb to watch as the master, Mr MDS, Rachid El Morabity opened a gap pushing at almost 17km’s and hour.
Aziz Yachou
Aziz grimaced trying to keep up. This was the make or break day and Rachid crossed the line in 2:11:43. Aziz followed with 2:12:23.
Aziz watching Rachid pull away!
Now, what time was Mohamed going to cross in? No doubt he was calculating a pace to make it all very close for the last day, his time, 3:04:06 (35th place) and 52:23 after Rachid.
The ranking going in to the last stage:
Mohamed El Morabity 19:19:39
Rachid El Morabity 19:20:14 (35 seconds behind)
Aziz Yachou 19:22:30 (2:51:00 behind)
It’s all becoming a blur.
The strategy for stage 6 is simple, Mohamed will recover from his leg problem but relinquish the 35 seconds to his brother whist also making sure he does not lose time to Aziz so that he finishes second. It has been a stunning El Morabity game plan, once again!
Aziza El Amrany and Rziza Raji
The Aziza’s ran together today and crosssed in 3:15:01. Rajaa Hamdaoua 3rd in 3:28:52 and Gemma Game 5th in 3:54:54.
Rajaa 3rd on stage
Stage 6 for the women will be casual with Azia El Amrany secure in 1st, Aziza Raji secure in 2nd and Gemma Game secure in 3rd.
It’s all getting too much for some.
You can receive daily updates and reports on this website. Follow on IG @iancorlessphotography and @mdslegendary
Time allowance 12-hours 45-minutes / 0630am and 0800 start (top 150 ranked)
The fall out from the long day is always hard. Bodies are now tired and normally, many would be saying, ‘just a marathon to go!’ But not for the 2024 edition.
Aziz Yachou
Stage 4 is 43.2km’s and to follow, stage 5 and stage 6 at 31.4km and 21.1km respectively.
Travelling north all the way to B3, this is a tough day and probably will be remembered as the soft-sand day, especially as the most challenging terrain comes at the end.
Sand and heat
With 3 CP’s at 10km, 22.9km and 30.1km, the severity of the stage is reflected with ‘additional’ water stations at 17km 37.7km.
Cooling off at the CP’s
While the early km’s allowed for easier terrain with cooler temperatures, the kick is in the tail with relentless sand and dunes from 22km all the way to the finish with increasing heat, expected at a 35-degree high, but feeling much hotter than 40-degrees for the runner’s. A tough day!
Rachid in the early 10km’s
Rachid El Morabity dictated the early pace with Aziz and Mohamed behind.
Mohamed
The trio mixed it up but by the halfway point they were all together.
Two company, three a crowd
In the closing 10km, Rachid made a notable kick and pulled away for the stage win, Aziz and Mohamed behind 3:13:24 for Rachid and 3:14:59 for the duo.
Aziza
Aziz E Amrany has been at another level this year and once again she dominated the stage from the front with another stage win in 4:29:41.
Aziza Raji
Aziza Raji followed looking relaxed and strong with a secure 2nd place in 4:53:08.
Adriana Moser
Sadly, 3rd placed runner Adriana Moser had to withdraw from the race at one of the CP’s opening the door for Gemma Game who has placed 3rd at MDS twice in the past; it maybe three times a charm! However, it was Rajaa Hamdaoua who was 3rd on the stage with 5:09:59.
The spectacle of the Sahara
You can receive daily updates and reports on this website. Follow on IG @iancorlessphotography and @mdslegendary
Stage 3, the feared ‘Long Day’ coming earlier in the race requires respect. Quite simply, with 3 stages still to go, energy management is key. However, it was a decision of the new organisation, to bring the long day earlier to allow participants to be fresher and have more energy for the challenge ahead. Also, with earlier starts, cooler temperatures for the early hours.
The route is a classic and arguably, I would say it is the most beautiful route of all the MDS I have experienced. It’s a tough one though!
From B2 the stoney climb to the summit of Jebel El Otfal is followed by the steep and sandy descent before a long flat run along the plateau before climbing and traversing the ridge of Jebel Joha Baba Ali, for me, one the best parts of the whole race! Another ridge follows before stoney ground and sand leads the route close to Ramlia and CP5. From here, the march continues.
Magical landscape
Ba Halou, Oued Rheris, Ras Kemouna, the salt flats, the iconic El Maharch and then a return to B2. This is a highlight tour of the Sahara that mixes plateau, technical terrain and lots of soft sand.
The 0600 start
With 7 CP’s: 12.5km, 24.5km, 35.2km, 43km, 51km, 63km and 74.5km, the requirement for extra water is important and therefore at CP1, runner’s were provided an additional 1.5ltr bottle so that they could increase their carrying capacity for the stage.
The majority of the field started at 0600 and the top-50 at 0730. While the top men and women would look to push the envelope, the early starts would mean a finish in daylight. For most, this stage is about survival and many went through the night and into the next day to get the job done.
It got hot…
The winds had eased and the temperatures rose reaching a high of 33-degrees on the stage and a ”feel’ of 40-degrees during the mid afternoon. It was certainly a day that took it’s toll with many runner’s requiring attention and of course there were sadly DNF’s – a confirmed number to follow.
Starting 90-minutes after the masses, the top-50 were soon at Jebel El Otfal and the charge lead by Rachid El Morabity for the men and Aziza El Amrany for the women.
Rachid leading early on
After the first ridge, the format was the same, Rachid pusued by his brother Mohamed and Aziz Yachou, with Aziza Raji pursuing her Moroccan friend.
Mohamed takes the lead
By the second ridge, Mohamed was in the lead, Aziz followed and then Rachid, with CP2 close, a plan was coming in to action for the El Morabity brothers, but, what was it?
What followed, was a complete surprise, Mohamed opened up a lead and continued to extend time finishing in a remarkable 7:37:47.
Getting it wrong on Jebel El Otfal
Aziz and Rachid finished in 8:31:52 and 8:31:53 respectively – what just happened? There will be more news to follow on this when I get in to bivouac and discuss with the three protagonists. For now though, Mohamed had the run of his life and Rachid is unlikely (?) to win his 10th MDS.
Yoann Stuck 4th
Yoann Stuck was 4th and Hamid Yachou 5th, 8:46:30 and 9:17:21.
Aziza El Amrany – incredible run
Aziza El Amrany is on fire this year. I have never seen her race and push so hard. It’s impressive, her victory was as equally mind-blowing as Mohamed crossing the line in 10:46:10.
Aziza Raji
Aziza Raji and Adriana Moser once again placed 2nd and 3rd, 11:24:29 and 12:05:06.
Adriana Moser
Day1 passes to day 2 and now those who have pushed through the night have another day to achieve the opportunity to fight another day.
A day of pain for some
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Stage 2, a beautiful stage of 40.8km’s travelling north to B2. This area of the Sahara has been used on multiple Marathon des Sables and rightly so, it’s an area that offers excellent terrain and visual splendour.
Breakfast before the start
The opening km’s to 6.3km ease the runner’s into the day and then the following km’s to CP1 at 12km are a challenge that sap energy.
CP2 comes at 25km however, the inclusion of an additional water station at 19.8km makes the stage more manageable.
Cold water at the checkpoints help runner’s cool off
Although the presence of soft-sand is minimal, the terrain is hard and energy sapping. CP2 to CP3 is just 8km (33km total) and then the final run in to 40.8km concludes the day.
Sand, golden light and mountain backdrops
With an 0700 start, camp was alive with. head torches as runner’s prepared for the day. A mild night and finally, the wind disappeared.
Camp life
At the start, temperatures were around 12-degrees and they stayed low till around 0900 and then the mercury rose to a predicted high of 33-degrees.
The first downhill of the day for James Miller (ZA)
Although Rachid El Morabity had a lead early on, the day was very much neutralised for the top runners in Mohamed El Morabity and Aziz Yachou. They have respect for the long day on stage 3 and they all know this will be a crucial decider for potential overall victory.
A variety of terrain for stage 2
Mohamed, Rachid and Aziz all finished roughly together and with stage 2 complete, the time are 5:22:47, 5:23:14 and 5:23:16 for Mohamed, Rachid and Aziz respectively.
Aziza El Amrany unstopple for this 38th edition.
The women’s race had the same format as stage 1 with Aziza El Amrancy forging ahead for another stage win and a more substantial time gain, her time now 6:54:06 in comparison to 7:40:32 for Aziz Raji who also finished 2nd on the stage.
Adriana Moser
Adrianna Moser concluded the stage podium with a now total time of 7:51:49 with Gemma Game and Laurence Klein at 8:04:49 and 8:26:17.
Gemma Game
Stage 3 tomorrow, the long day, starts at 0600 for the majority and the top-50 at 0730. It will be tough day with no wind and rising temperatures.
You can receive daily updates and reports on this website. Follow on IG @iancorlessphotography and @mdslegendary
It’s all change for 2024 and with the race re-using several bivouac locations, the race will have a different feel and format.
Stage 1 MDS The Legendary 2024
Admin day passed yesterday and now everyone feels settled in their new home – a tent shared with 7 other souls. Camp life is becoming normal and anticipation is high. Weather has been ‘cool’ by MDS standards, however, the wind has been relentless with constant sand storms.
The start as sand blew through the Sahara
A key change for 2024 is also earlier start times to allow easier running in cooler temperatures, stage 1 with a scheduled 0700 call and 0730 start. It means morning prep and admin is taken mostly in the dark. Today was ‘chilly’ withe temperatures around 10-deg.
B1 located close to Tafraout offers an excellent location and this area is familiar territory for Marathon des Sables.
Rachid leading early in the race.
The distance 31.1km with 3 checkpoints coming at 9.1km, 16.4km and 24.3km. In many respects, it’s a good stage 1 with mostly hard and runnable terrain and little soft sand. A key feature around 10km’s is Jebel Taourirt Mouchanne and then challenging terrain from 14km to 19km before returning to where the stage started.
Stage 1 is always taken with caution, however, at the front of the race, an earlier start, cooler temperatures and a very runnable day could only mean one thing – a fast day! Temperatures for the early runner’s remained under 20-degs and it was midday bfore temperature reached 23-degrees with a possible high of 27-degrees.
Aziz Yachou
Uncharacteristically, Rachid El Morabity dictated the pace all the way to CP1. He usually starts slow and builds speed, not today, no doubt testing everyone else. He was closely followed by Aziz Yachou, his brother, Mohamed El Morabity and then Aziz’s brother, Hamid.
Aziza El Amrany
For the women, Aziza El Amrany dictated the pace and it was a fast pace building a large margin over the competition, notably Aziza Raji.
Aziza Raji
Quickly after CP1, Rachid eased up, and Aziz passed. Rachid then almost jogged allowing hos brother to pass and Hamid. A surprising tactic.
An early start and a low sun
From the final checkpoint, it all changed again. Now Mohamed leading the charge to the line, Rachid close behind and then Aziz, 2:11:09, 2:11:36 and 2:20:33 respectively with Hamid Yachou taking 4th ahead of Ahmed Ouikhalfen, 2:20:33 and 2:25:46.
Yoann Stuck
Top Brit was John Dewey in 6th, Yoann Stuck from France was 8th.
Aziza with a dominant performance.
Aziza El Amrany was a woman with a mission today, no doubt realising that 2024 is her opportunity for victory. She crossed the line in 2:45:54 and amazingly, past MDS winner, Aziza Raji crossed the line in 3:11:53 – a huge gap after stage 1.
Laurence Klein
Adriana Moser and Gemma Game ran much of the day together and they crossed in 3:12:53 and 3:13:45. MDS legend, Laurence Klein finished 5th in 3:23:13.
The last runner on stage 1 keeping ahead of the camels.
You can receive daily updates and reports on this website. Follow on IG @iancorlessphotography and @mdslegendary
The 2024 and 38th edition of Marathon des Sables is here! MDS The Legendary, the longest edition in the history of the race, 252km’s over 6 timed stages.
Close to 900 participants will toe the line, exact numbers will be confirmed at bivouac 1. With 60 countries represented, France and the UK lead the with 267 and 178 participants respectively.
From the 900 starters, 27% are women; a record. The youngest participant will be Lionel Schneider (16) and the oldest, Harry Hunter who has just turned 75 on April 15th.
Runner’s will arrive in Morocco on April 12th for a transfer to the desert.
Saturday 13th is admin day and then the race schedule is as follows:
April 14 – STAGE 1 – Departure 0700 31.1km and 282m+
April 15 – STAGE 2 – Departure 0700 40.8km and 550m+
April 16 – STAGE 3 (The Long day which will go through to April 17) – Departure 0600 and 0730 for the top 50. 85.3km and 1154m+
April 18 – STAGE 4 – Departure 0630 and 0800 43.1km and 390m+
April 19 – STAGE 5 – Departure 0700 31.4km and 252m+
April 20 – STAGE 6 – Departure 0630 and then transfer back to Ouarzazate 21.1km and 160m+
April 21 – Ouarzazate
April 22 – Home travel
THE ROUTE
Unlike previous editions of MDS, the 2024 route will concentrate on one key area of the Sahara. It makes sense, it is the most beautiful. Therefore the race will not be a point-to-point but a series of journeys and participants will stay in the same bivouac on multiple occasions.
Importantly, Jebel El Otfal, Jebel Joha Baba Ali and the oasis of El Maharch will feature on the ‘long day’ however, there will be no Merzouga dunes during the race.
In summary:
Stage 1 B1 to B1 31.1km and 282m+
Stage 2 B1 to B2 40.8km and 550m+
Stage 3 Is an elaborate series of tracks, B2 back to B2 85.3km and 1154m+
Stage 4 B2 to B3 43.1km and 390m+
Stage 5 B3 to B3 a looped route that makes a heart shape 31.4km and 252m+
Stage 6 B3 to finish 21.1km and 160m+
ONES TO WATCH
MEN
MOHAMED EL MORABITY
As in any MDS, there are the front contenders who will do battle for overall honours, in the men’s category, three obvious names are stand out: Mohamed El Morabity, Rachid El Morabity and Aziz Yachou. All eyes will be on Rachid, he is looking for a 10th MDS title and after the disaster in 2023 when he received a 2-hour time penalty, Rachid will be looking to make amends and make history. Mohamed, Rachids brother took the reigns in 2023 and won, but will this be allowed in 2024? Aziz Yachou gets stronger and stronger every year, he has a battle against the brothers though.
Petter Restrop, Yoann Stuck, Roberto Mastrotto, James Miller, Alessio Zambon, Ahmed Ouikhalfen, Stéphane Ricard,Mérile Robert, Hamid Yachou, Anthony Ginter, Romain Laguigner Abdelhadi Elmoustahli are also ranked as the top contenders, as always, there will be surprises.
WOMEN
AZIZA RAJI
Aziza Raji and Aziza El Amrany fly the Moroccan flag and are of course, top contenders for the podium. The UK’s Gemma Game is returning, she has placed 3rd twice in 2018 and 2019 – is this the year?
Lai King Chan, Adriana Moser, Saskia Plaucheur, Marie Houdusse, Amélie Ginter, Ninette Banoun, Magdalena Kalus, Alexandra Bailly, Annę Godefroy, Nina Stein and Katherine Beckingham are all in with a shout of top-10 and maybe the podium.
STORIES
AMY PALMIERO WINTERS
The MDS is always a place for stories, challenges, inspiration and adventure and the 38th edition will be no different. Often, these stories unfold as the race happens.
Mr MDS, Christian Ginter is back for his 36th edition, yes, his 36th! Rory Coleman from the UK return for his 16th and in and amongst these two highlight names, we will have new stories to follow and inspire us.
INTERESTING FACTS
In an effort to reduce the environmental impact of such a huge race, the MDS has taken some key measures.
In 2023 50 lorries were used, for 2024 this will be 20. In 2023 157 4×4 vehicles have been reduced to 78. A helicopter as per usual will be available for emergency use only. This equates to a 47% reduction I carbon emissions.
In addition, chartered flights were reduced to just 3 planes with an encouragement for participants to choose commercial options.
The use of local services has been increased using local staff, vehicles, trophies made in Morocco, and the catering team for staff will be all Moroccan with 100% of produce local and a reduction in chicken and beef.
In addition, checkpoints will have solar power and all communication relays utilise solar too.
Waste management has been improved and a key move has been to eradicate 1.5ltr bottles and replace with 5ltr.
Safety has always been a key concern and for 2024 there is an increase in medical staff, 65 up from 56, there 9 SSV rapid response vehicles, up from 4 in 2023. There will be 9 4×4 vehicles and new for 2024, 3 MTB riders and 9 runner’s who will participate on the race route offering immediate medical response. A medical point will be in the centre of bivouac so that immediate attention can be given if required.
ADVENTURE AWAITS
The 38th edition is now waiting to unfold. It’s a new era for the race. Let the adventure begin, MDS The Legendary makes history.
You can receive daily updates and reports on this website. Follow on IG @iancorlessphotography and @mdslegendary
IAN CORLESS 