Stage 2 of MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast and the option to choose the stage distance: 20km, 40km or 60km?
Photo by Ian Corless
One of the appealing factors of the MDS format is the stage 2 distance option, with stage 1 and 3 the same for all, the stage 2 option allows for an overall distance of 70km, 100km or 120km.
Photo by Ian Corless
The day started under heavy cloud and winds coming from the north . At 0845 as participants arrived for the start, rain started to fall. It was an ominous beginning for the day and the weather remained challenging with rain increasing in strength during the morning.
Photo by Ian Corless
Gladly, by midday, blue skies and sun started to appear, however, the wind increased in strength and continued to do so into the night.
Photo by Ian Corless
With epic landscape, stunning dunes, there was much to appreciate in this stage and despite the weather, runner’s were constantly smiling.
Photo by Ian Corless
With three distances, rankings change after stage 2, often considerably, for example, Listy Mazille, a clear winner on stage 1 is now the leader of the 1ookm and we have a new leader in the 120km category now.
These Omani nights are cold. Dare I say that last night was colder than the night before? It’s tough for the runner’s, especially those that are minimum with kit, particularly lightweight sleeping bag and no down jacket.
Stage 3 at 40km is the second longest of the week and arguably the toughest, compensated for with incredible beauty.
Saleh – Photo by Ian Corless
The Oman Desert Marathon is very much a sand race. Every step is on varying decrees of soft-sand and stage 3 adds the spice of a rollercoaster of dunes. There is even a dune section to the finish line.
Lots of sand – Photo by Ian Corless
Starting just after sunrise, the early morning light and views in the first and second dune sections were spectacular. Up high, you really get to see the enormity and expanse of the sand here in Oman, it is relentless.
A tough day – Photo by Ian Corless
Early km’s of the day saw many wearing a windbreaker, trying to get warm after a cold night and chilly start. The heat soon came though and it would keep rising to a high of 27-degrees.
Rachid feeling the chill – Photo by Ian Corless
The top male contenders ran much of the day together, nobody seemed particularly eager to push the pace. Rachid took it very easy wearing a windbreaker and gloves for the whole day, he was a long way back early on and then little by little he moved up the field as the race progressed.
Mohamed playing a waiting game – Photo by Ian Corless
Mohamed and Saleh are inform and the duo finished first and second on the stage just 11-seconds apart, 4:14:39 and 4:14:50 respectively. Rachid moved up to third by the finish line crossing nearly 10-minutes behind his brother.
Aziza Raji – Photo by Ian Corless
For the women, Aziza finished 11th overall in 5:52:44 and a long way ahead of Lydia Oldham in second, 6:30:49. Sally ford was third nearly 50-minutes behind second.
Tomorrow is the penultimate stage of 30km. With three starts, 1500hrs, 1600hrs and 1700hrs, the participants will go into the night and finish in darkness.
It was a cold night, the temperature plummeted when the sun disappeared and bivouac became a place of camp fires and groups of runner’s huddled together trying to keep warm.
Photo by Ian Corless
As always, MDS events are about planning and being prepared, the need for a jacket, and ideally a down jacket, was never more important. Those with sleeping bags that were too minimal, had a cold and shivering night.
A new day was welcomed and today two starts, 0700 for the masses and 0800 for the top-50.
Photo by Ian Corless
Stage 2 of MDS is special due to the three route option, 20km, 40km and 60km. The decision can actually be made on the course, the first option obviously 20km and then 40km. Pass the 40km turn and you are doing the 60km.
Photo by Ian Corless
The three route option is as much a mind game as a physical game. Given the option, do you choose to go easier or harder, it’s a tough question to answer for some, especially after a challenging stage 1 that gladly saw everyone finish.
Photo by Ian Corless
Due to the nature of the three distances, the true story of who leads each distance will come at the closing of the stage, so, check LiveTrail HERE for 120km, HERE for 100km and HERE for the 70km.
Photo by Ian Corless
Notably, Salameh Alaqra chose the 40km option today after picking up a slight injury on stage 1.
Photo by Ian Corless
The true star of stage 2 is the magical and unique landscape of Wadi Rum. It’s a very special place.
Photo by Ian CorlessPhoto by Ian Corless
Tomorrow, a rest day. An opportunity to relax and recover before the final stage 3.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
Is Jordan the jewel in the MDS line-up of races? It is hard to pick any one location with so many stunning options, but, Jordan offers something very unique.
Photo by Ian Corless
The runner’s are surrounded by ampitheatres of rock, canyons, gorges and the glow of intense light making Wadi Rum a very special place.
Photo by Ian Corless
Stage 1 started with an early wake up and a 4am depart from the race hotel, ahead, a 4-hour journey to the desert.
Photo by Ian Corless
Starting a little after 0930, 550 runner’s were released for the adventure of a lifetime, ahead 27.4km and 980m+.
Photo by Ian Corless
The passage of a narrow gorge and climb came early and then the track weaved through mountains, much of the time, the terrain soft sand. It’s a tough day 1.
Photo by Ian Corless
After cp2, the track is more open and flat allowing for an ‘easier’ run to the finish line of the day and bivouac, home for the next three nights.
Photo by Ian Corless
As with all MDS races, the journey is unique and challenging for each person, run or walk. However, at the front a race takes place and today, Rachid El Morabity was the victor ahead of Theo Detienne and Dorian Louvet, 2:07:52, 2:12:47 and 2:14:58 respectively. Salameh El Alaqra, the Jordanian was 4th in 2:30:44.
Photo by Ian Corless
MDS The Legendary champion in 2022, Sylvaine Cussot was the clear winner for the women, crossing the line in 3:18:24. Pauline Thinus was 2nd and Maine Canas was 3rd, 3:40:10 and 3:43:14.
Photo by Ian Corless
Tomorrow, stage 2, is the long day where participants can choose 20km, 40km or 60km.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
It has been a hectic period for the MDS crew with back-to-back events, MDS Fuerteventura, MDS Morocco and then MDS Trek. Now it’s a quick transition from Morocco to Jordan and the highly anticipated, 2024 edition of MDS Jordan.
With 599 participants, of which 332 are women and 267 men, once again, MDS events pioneer the way with more women participants than men, 55% to 45% for Jordan.
Jordan will see 25 different nationalities with the French topping the participation numbers. Unsurprisingly, the average age is 43! With 10-participants under the age of 25-years and 16-participants over 65-years. It’s an incredible testament to the MDS format that these races appeal to everyone seeking an adventure.
Schedule:
Day 1: Arrival at hotel
Day 2: Technical and medical checks, day at hotel with access to the Dead Sea
Day 3: Bus transfer, first stage, night in bivouac
Day 4: Second stage, night in bivouac
Day 5: Rest day, night in bivouac
Day 6: Third stage, discover Petra, night in hotel
Day 7: Day at hotel, Gala dinner
Day 8: Transfer to airport, end of adventure
Is Jordan the jewel in the MDS crown? With so many great destinations, it’s hard to pick a stand out, however, when speaking to many, Jordan is high on many a runner’s wish list for very good reason. Only ‘The Legendary’ tips the ‘wish list’ scales.
The 4th edition, running from November 2nd to 9th is sold out and importantly, dates are already set for the 5th and 6th editions, May 9-16 2025 and November 1-8 2025.
Breathtaking landscapes and backdrops await in the amazing desert of Wadi Rum. Living in the rhythm of the desert, as with all MDS events, participants will run or walk 70, 100 or 120km over 3-stages in 4-days.
Day 1 / Stage 1 25-30km.
Day 2 / Stage 2 choose 20km, 40km or 60km.
Day 3 Rest day
Day 4 / Stage 3 25-30km followed by transfer to hotel.
Pre and post-race, 2-nights before and 2-nights after, the 599 runners will enjoy a 4-star hotel situated on the Dead Sea. But the magic does not end there, post-race, a visit to the mythical city of Petra is included.
Photo @mirandahdz
On the final day, time to relax and prepare for the awards ceremony and gala dinner.
Nothing like an MDS post-race party with DJ Robin.
Three sublime stages which will transport participants in the most beautiful places. Wadi Rum is a truly exceptional place Located in the south of Jordan, the desert is breathtaking Contrasting sand, mountains, canyons, caves and natural arches; the landscape is mind-blowing.
4 days in the heart of Wadi Rum, that’s the unique experience that the participants of this MDS adventure will live.
What is the MDS?
The MARATHON DES SABLES is a unique adventure, shared by thousands of enthusiasts since 1986.
To differentiate the full distance race of 250km’s, Marathon des Sables will now be known at MDS The Legendary, reflecting the legendary status of this iconic event and its long history as a pioneer of the stage racing and multi-day format.
The ‘HMDS’ format whill still follow the same protocols as before but has now dropped the ‘half’ title and moving forward, events will be called MDS Jordan, MDS Morocco, MDS Cappadocia and so on.
The MDS events are a one-week sporting adventure that combines the discovery, travel, meeting new people and physically challenging yourself in a self-sufficient manner.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
The final stage of the 2024 MDS Morocco started with an early wake up ahead of the 0530 start. There was a chill in the air as participants prepared their last meals.
WAA – What An Adventure
The stage 3 route had been modified due to flooding, but the course would take place in the same region of the Sahara as planned, just a slight detour avoiding the requirement to swim…
Race winner, Rachid El Morabity
The stage of 25km’s was notable as the HANDI category would complete the entire stage, just one section at around 11km, a narrow gorge, requiring outside assistance from the MDS blue coats to help ensure safe passage.
Teamwork makes the dream work.
For the top runner’s, the stage would be completed in almost darkness, with sunrise coming at 0720 and the expected first finisher at 0730.
Amazing sunrise
It was a magical day, the glow and lines of headlamps creating a visual spectacle. The Handi teams inspiring and showing that there are no limits and of course, the sunrise was really exceptional.
Magic of the Sahara
The 2024 MDS Morocco will be remembered in the history of the Marathon des Sables legacy; strong winds, sand storms, thunderstorm, torrential rain, flooding and the Handi teams.
The flooding created unique visual moments.
The experience has been all the greater for these moments of test. And for future editions of MDS lessons can be learnt, participants must be prepared for all eventualities. History has shown, the Sahara is not always hot, it is not always dry and it is not always calm and relaxing. This is what makes the adventure and challenge so great and rewarding.
The Handi category, amazing and emotional.
As with all MDS events. there are three distance categories, 70km, 100km and 120km. For the 2024 MDS Morocco, a fourth category, the Handi. A category that we all hope that can grow and develop to more races in the MDS portfolio.
The MDS Morocco 2024 came to an end. Winners were crowned at the awards ceremony, but the top-3 in each distance are only the tip of the iceberg in a race of 630 participants. The MDS format truly appreciates and applauds all who take part, be them fast runner or walker. These races exist to allow all abilities an opportunity to seek an adventure at a pace and a distance that is a challenge to themselves, it’s a wonderful concept.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
Following on from MDS Fuerteventura, the MDS team quickly transition to Morocco and the 2024 edition of MDS Morocco that will take place in the heart of the Sahara. MDS Morocco offers an adventure accessible to all kind of walkers and runners. A unique journey, where you will cross breathtaking landscapes. Far from any form of civilization, this is a unique opportunity to refocus on yourself and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
This 3rd edition, 12th to the 19th October will see 600 participants arrive for the adventure of a lifetime in the place where the Marathon des Sables story started over 37-years ago, Morocco.
Participants will arrive in Ouarzazate on Saturday October 12th for technical and medical checks followed by a night in a hotel.
Admin and medical checks
The following day, Sunday, is the journey, via bus, to the desert (approximately 6 hours) with arrival in bivouac and the start of self-sufficiency.
Bus transfer to the desert
Day 3, 4, 5 and 6 will have participants follow the classic MDS format of racing, 3 stages spread over 4-days.
Day 1 / Stage 1 25-30km.
Day 2 / Stage 2 choose 20km, 40km or 60km.
Day 3 Rest day
Day 4 / Stage 3 25-30km followed by transfer to hotel.
Importantly, MDS Morocco will see the addition of the NEW category, HANDI MDS which will cover 51km and 867m+
The following day provides the opportunity to visit the iconic site of Aït-Benhaddou(one of the locations of the film Gladiator). On arrival back at the hotel, time to relax and prepare for the awards ceremony and gala dinner.
Saturday 19h October is departure day.
Three sublime stages which will transport participants in the most beautiful places of the Moroccan Sahara, sleeping 4 nights in the MDS bivouac, this is the start of one of the adventures of a lifetime.
What is the MDS?
The MARATHON DES SABLES is a unique adventure, shared by thousands of enthusiasts since 1986.
To differentiate the full distance race of 250km’s, Marathon des Sables will now be known at MDS The Legendary, reflecting the legendary status of this iconic event and its long history as a pioneer of the stage racing and multi-day format.
The ‘HMDS’ format will still follow the same protocols as before but has now dropped the ‘half’ title and moving forward, events will be called MDS Jordan, MDS Morocco, MDS Cappadocia and so on.
MDS always an adventure
The MDS events are a one-week sporting adventure that combines the discovery, travel, meeting new people and physically challenging yourself in a self-sufficient manner.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
MARATHON DES SABLES 2025 events are already open:
MDS Morocco – Atlantic Coast: January 25 to February 1, 2025
A key consideration for any self-sufficient multi-day journey is weight. Additional weight is just a burden, so, fine tuning equipment for your adventure is key.
In races such as Marathon des Sables, there is a requirement to be completely self-sufficient with just water and a shelter provided.
So, in addition to the clothes you are wearing, you must carry all the food required for the week, any luxuries and importantly warm layers: sleeping bag, sleeping mat, jacket and so on.
The debate, ”Do I need a warm jacket?” takes place every year and in all honesty, the most truthful answer is yes and no! It doesn’t help does it! The reason being, in a hot year, the need for a jacket can be very minimal or not at all. However, in a cold or cooler year, a jacket can be a life saver. So, the best answer here is usually have a jacket, take it with you and before the race, whilst in race location, make a decision based on the current weather and forecast.
Sleeping bag in some ways is easier to answer, yes, you need one! However, that is only the start of the process with a sleeping bag, you need to take into account key questions:
Do I sleep warm?
Do I sleep cold?
Am I tall?
Am I short?
Do I have wide shoulders?
Do I get cold feet?
And the above list can go on.
Also, budget is a consideration, there are many sleeping bag options and prices vary greatly.
Ultimately, for a jacket and sleeping bag we want the following:
The lightest possible.
The warmest based on our needs.
The most flexible system.
I personally have always been in favour of having a jacket, mornings can be cold and evenings can be chilly, so, the option of a jacket is great. Also, if you have a jacket, you can look at taking a lighter, less warm sleeping bag and looking to ‘boost’ warmth if required by wearing the jacket inside the sleeping bag.
With all the above in mind, UK brand PHD have come up with a potentially perfect solution.
The ULTRA JACKET and the DESERT RACE HALFBAG.
Before discussing in-depth, PHD understand the need for weight v warmth, they also understand layering and the benefits of top-quality ethically sourced down.
The ULTRA JACKET is super light at 200g and is filled with 1000 fillpower down, good for temperatures as low as -5 deg.
The DESERT RACE HALFBAG is a half size sleeping bag weighing 240g. This bag stops at the waist is filled with high-quality 950 fillpower down and is designed to keep legs and feet warm. However, the technology does not stop there. Understanding that deserts can be windy, they have added a neck-length sand cover or extender to cocoon your body, arms and hands to cut out air movement. This allows the user to regulate warmth and comfort.
If it is cold, you quite simply add the ULTRA JACKET and then pull the neck-length sand cover over.
This combination provides a sleep/ warm system for well under 500g that packs very, very small. Effectively, with this combination of products, not only do you save weight, but you increase flexibility and options.
THE JACKET
The Ultra Jacket weighing 200g for a men’s medium is a high quality product filled with 1000 fillpower down giving warmth to -5 degrees. It is a simple, no frills product designed to be as warm as possible and as light as possible. The outer fabric is windproof which adds to the warmth. It does have hand pockets with no zips, again to save weight. There is a zippered inner chest pocket. Standard colour is black but it is possible to choose red and as with all PHD products you can have a custom make with Hypershell or you can add a hood. You can also have a custom fit, specifying body width, body length and arm length.
Prices start at 498.00 UK pounds / 582 euros.
PHD say, “Our lightest sub-zero down jacket. A ‘K Series’ product. Warmth to weight at the limit of possibilities for extra-keen lightweight backpackers and mountain racers. Now also available in custom sizes.”
THE BAG
The Desert Race Halfbag is a simple, lightweight and effective solution for those looking to save weight, increase flexibility and still keep warm, it comes in a standard length.
The neck-length sand cover is a brilliant addition.
The addition of the neck-length sand cover increases warmth and flexibility on windy and cooler nights. Using top-quality 950 fillpower down, this half bag is incredibly light and packs small. It has stitch through construction ensuring down stays evenly spread with no cold spots. As with all PHD products, it is possible to have a custom make, for example add a zip, have it made short or long, choose a colour (green, red, black or white) or you can add Dri-LX outer fabric.
Prices start at 342.00 UK pounds / 400 euros.
PHD say, “Designed specifically for desert racing. From the legendary Saharan Marathon des Sables to the Kalahari’s KAEM, and the growing number of events in the Gobi, the Atacama, the Australian interior and all around the world, these events have their own particular set of challenges to overcome. Sweltering 40 degree (C) race days can give way to 4 degree (C) nights – that’s cold enough for frost – in which warmth, sleep and recovery play a vital part in preparation for the next day’s challenge.”
950. A newcomer to our range. European goose of rare quality. A high value alternative at the top levels of performance. We have introduced a wide range of options in 950 in response to the soaring cost of 1000.
1000. European goose down of unique quality with exceptionally large lively clusters. 1000 provides the highest warmth-for-weight performance possible from down and has been used in PHD products since 2008. Unfortunately, scarcity (and the fashion industry) continue to push up the price steeply every year. This rarest of all downs we reserve for the K Series, our lightest products right through the range from marathon ultralights to alpine kit and on into high mountain gear.
IN USE
Desert Race Halfbag with neck-length sand cover and ultra jacket with hood
The system is absolutely brilliant and I have fallen in love with the weight of the two items, the flexibility to adjust my sleep comfort temperature and when it has been cold, the down jacket really gives a massive boost and pulling up the neck-length sand cover encapsulates me so that I feel I have a full sleeping bag.
There are some important points to consider, the effectiveness (warmth) of the jacket and half bag is improved by using a sleeping mat which adds comfort and insulation from the ground. Also, I intentionally chose a jacket with no hood as I preferred the lighter jacket weight and the option to add a hat or beanie to increase warmth. It’s really simple, want a jacket or sleeping bag to be warmer, cover your head.
CONCLUSION
The combo of jacket and halfbag is now, without doubt, going to be chosen fast-packing/ multi-day option. It just makes sense. I have a really warm jacket for sitting around. I have a really warm halfbag and when the two are combined, I have a really excellent and adaptable system for sleeping. The light and storable sand cover is really simple, use it or don’t use it, no worries, but the extra security and protection this gives is brilliant. PHD are really on to something here.
With high quality down products and lightweight fabrics, they compress and adapt when packing, so, adding these to a race bag after packing they will take up little or no space. As an example, I used two small dry bags (3L) by Osprey and Sea-to-Summit and packed the jacket and bag away to see how small I could compress them.
Are there any downsides? Yes, the price. The jacket and halfbag in standard configuration will cost you 840.00 UK pounds/ 982 euros. That is a hefty price tag. However, if you look at the cost of a down jacket and full sleeping bag, the prices are comparable, +/-.
This offer by PHD does not come cheap and yes, you can shop around and find options that are considerably cheaper. I guess I look at this a little like buying a car, any car providing it has fuel and it is in working order, will take you for A to B. However, based on desires, budget and the desire for the best, you can do that A to B ride in a small Fiat or a Ferrari. PHD are coming at the Ferrari end offering a luxury bespoke product that is extremely light, packs really small, is perfect for the task that is required and for that, you pay a price!
Only you can decide if it is worth it!
I have been using PHD for over 10-years, I have used their Minim bags in the Sahara and the Hispar bags in the Himalayas. The ability to have custom features has been, at times, a luxury. My original Sahara bag had no zip to save weight, however, my next bag had a full-zip which allowed me the option to use it as a blanket/ duvet. The Ultra Jacket and the Desert Race Halfbag has taken things to a next level and in doing so, they have provided me multiple options for temperature regulation in varying climate conditions and I love this. Should I go to a very cold climate in the future, I could now use this jacket and halfbag in combination with my Hispar bag to give me excellent sleep comfort below -20degs, that is awesome.
PHD have always made a superb product, it is made in the UK with the highest quality products and importantly, ethically sourced down, which comes at a price. They may be expensive, but you get a top-quality product and excellent after service and care.
Reviews:
“It worked exactly as described. I consider the temperature ratings accurate. We had a couple of nights when the wind picked up and the sand blew. When this happened I was grateful for being able to pull the sand sheet on the half bag up over my head and use the drawstring to keep the sand out” – Gareth Scobie (Marathon des Sables competitor).
“The sensation of immediate warmth in the Ultra Jacket is unsurpassed. The 1000-fill is so high-lofting, it puffs up as if a pump has been attached. Rare and wonderful.” – Judy Armstrong in TGO Magazine.
“For me the half bag and pullover was perfect, probably the best bit of kit I bought. To be wearing the top half as a jacket in the evening, then slip into the lower half was simplicity itself. It was plenty warm enough…” – Dain Jensen (Marathon des Sables competitor).
Marathon des Sables, today, announce MDS TREK MOROCCO which will take place from October 20th – 29th 2024.
Registration opens June 12th.
Building on the format of MDS – The Legendary, the MDS Trek brings a new concept to the desert with 10-days of disconnection from the noise, clutter and chaos of the modern world.
A 10-day adventure, spending 7-nights in the desert, the trek course will cover between 70 and 120km’s divided into several stages. The distance will be for you to decide based on your personal desires and ability. Unlike MDS – The Legendary, this is not a self-sufficient experience, therefore, participants will only need to carry a light pack with essential items.
But this experience is more than just a trek, it’s 360 experience of escape that will include workshops in the evening on physical and mental well-being in sport, for example, “Athletic Fasting – Its Strengths and Weaknesses”, “Glucose and Blood Sugar Management” or “The Power of Breathing”.
Staying in double tents with mattresses provided, at the end of each stage you will be able to have a Berber shower and buffet dinner. For a small extra charge, massages will be available and in the evening, the option to purchase cold drinks to relax, share experiences and unwind in social areas.
Following the route of the Marathon des Sables, the MDS Trek Morocco will have 4 timed stages, as previously mentioned, you choose the distance. There are no cut-offs, so, pace can be relaxed and should you have any difficulty, you can be repatriated to camp and still able to start the following day.
Water stations will be available along the route, and you will need capacity to carry 1.5 ltr of water, some food/ snacks and nothing more. The rest of your equipment will stay in bivouac.
There is an exception, the **long day, split over 2-days will require a sleeping bag as you will spend a night under the stars in a Nomad camp with a buffet dinner.
This new format offers an opportunity to be active both in mind and body, without the stresses of a more demanding self-sufficient race. It’s a trekking holiday that can be used as a unique stand alone experience or as a stepping stone to another MDS event.
Day 1 – The experience will last 10-days with the need to meet in Ouarzazate on day-1 for transfer to the desert.
Day 2 – Will have technical checks, workshop and a night in bivouac.
Day 3 – Stage 1
Day 4 – Stage 2 and in the evening, workshop.
Day 5 – Stage 3 part 1 with Nomad star night and buffet.
Day 6 – Stage 3 part 2 with return to bivouac and completion of the ‘long day.’
Day 7 – Rest day with workshop.
Day 8 – Stage 4 followed by night at a hotel.
Day 9 – Relaxation day, gala dinner, night at hotel.
Day 10 – Onward travel.
FEES
It will be possible to sign up for this experience from June 12thand the price will be 1950 euro for the first 100 participants and then increasing to 2050 euro.
Done MDS before? Maybe you’d like to return to the Sahara with a loved one or with friends and enjoy a more relaxed trek holiday? The price will be 1750 euro for the first 100 and then increasing to 1850 euro.
The meeting point will be in Ouarzazate on Sunday morning, October 20th, 2024, to join the organisation and take transfers to the desert.
To get to Morocco and Ouarzazate, you can arrive at different airports:
Ouarzazate airport Take a flight for Ouarzazate before the adventure and spend one or more nights at the hotel (at your own expense) then come to the meeting point on the morning of October 20th. We recommend that you arrive before October 19th so as not to miss the shuttles in case of a delay at the airport on Sunday, October 20th.
Marrakech airport Shuttles will be organised on Saturday April 19th in the morning, between Marrakech and Ouarzazate (5 hours journey). You can either: • Book a flight for Marrakech airport and on arrival, take one of our shuttles directly to Ouarzazate. • Spend one or more nights in Marrakech and take a shuttle on April 19th to Ouarzazate.
The return journey at the end of the MDS Trek follows the same logic.
If you wish, you can take advantage of the bus organized between Ouarzazate and Marrakech. These buses will leave Ouarzazate on the morning of October 29th, therefore you’ll need to book a return flight from Marrakech in the afternoon.
If you take a return flight from Ouarzazate, in this case you are free in the hotel-airport transfer and you can book a flight whenever you prefer.
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.
IAN CORLESS 