WHAT DOES IT COST TO RUN AN MDS EVENT?

Posted on February 5, 2025 by talkultra

It’s a common question, ‘What does it cost to run a MDS event?’

Of course, there is no one definitive answer, however, i’s easy to provide a breakdown of costs and then make adjustments from there, so here is a summary.

RACE ENTRY

In simple terms, Marathon des Sables have two event formats, The Legendary, which is the 6-stage event 0f 250km’s which in 2026 will be 40-years old, and, MDS events which are 3-stages over 4-days with the option of 70/100 or 120km’s. MDS Trek while following the classic MDS format (70/100/120) does vary a little and has extra days-

Entry Costs:

Legendary 4000,00 euro +/-

MDS 2150 to 2650 euro +/-

TRAVEL COSTS

Legendary or MDS events do not include travel to the country destination. Considering the variety of locations, the price here varies considerably. For example, Morocco and Fuerteventura have many flight options from many countries and they are facilitated, often, by budget airlines such as Easyjet.

By contrast, Jordan, Namibia and Peru require much more complicated and expensive travel often with connecting flights. A word of caution, the cheapest option here is not always the best option. Read the small print. I would also advise, planning to arrive at least one day earlier than required by the MDS organisation. This allows for delays or cancelled flights.

Also consider transfer costs to and from your departure airport. When on the ground in your race country, MDS provide transfers to and from the race hotel which are included in the race entry package.

HOTELS

The Legendary and MDS packages include hotels as part of the event package. What is available does vary from event to event. For example, with Legendary the meet up point is Ouarzazate airport with a direct transfer to bivouac one. MDS events typically have 1 or 2 nights hotel before stage 1 of the race.

All events transfer to a hotel after the finish for typically 2 nights.

So, if you plan to arrive early or stay on after, these hotel costs will be for you to pay, anticipate a budget of around 150 euro +/- per night with food.

TRAINING

This is often a hidden cost that many don’t consider. You may enter Legendary one year advance, think about all the elements that will come in to play when preparing. Below is an idea of things to consider:

Running shoes
Clothing for varying temperatures
Gym membership
Coaching/ Training Plan
Physiotherapy/ massage
Training camp.
Heat training

The above list provides a guideline of items to consider. At a minimum, its fair to assume that you should set aside at least 2000 euro for the above each year.

Of course, if you have a coach, weekly massage, gym membership, love apparel and shoes, you will easily spend considerably more than 2000 euro.

A good protocol is to set aside 250 euro per month.

MDS EQUIPMENT

There is often much discussion about equipment for an MDS event. Take a deep breath. It is not complicated, actually, it’s very simple.

The first and most important point, just because you have entered an MDS event, there is no need or requirement to go and purchase all new equipment. If you have apparel that is comfortable and causes no irritation, there is no need to change it. If you have trail shoes that work, are comfortable and importantly cause no blisters, there is no need to change shoes BUT there are things to consider with shoes – read here and here.

MDS runner list:

WAA Ultra Bag 160.00 euro
WAA MDS Sahara Hat 25.00 euro
WAA Ultra T 40.00 euro
WAA Ultra short 50.00 euro
WAA windproof 75.00 euro
Down jacket 150.00 euro
Buff 16.00 euro
Socks 60.00 euro
Gaiters 25.00 euro
Gaiter stitching 60.00 euro
Run shoes 200.00 euro – Shoes are personal to you. The Hoka Speedgoat is the most popular shoe at MDS.
Sunglasses 200.00 euro – Make sure they offer good protection, especially in a sand storm.
Knife 12.00 euro
Cup 25.00 euro
Stove 10.00 euro
Bottles 30.00 euro
Mandatory kit 100.00 euro
Sleeping mat 120.00 euro
Sleeping bag 150 to 500 euro – read an in-depth article on ‘Choosing a sleeping bag for an adventure‘
Dehydrated breakfast 10.00 euro (70.00 euro)
Dehydrated meal 12.00 euro (96.00)
Snacks 100.00

You could actually follow on the links above and you’d have the perfect MDS kit. You would just ned to make considerations for any climatic changes for the race destinations and also consider how many days you need food for. Remember, with Legendary, you are self-sufficient before the race too!

1949.00 euro +/-

It’s fair to assume that on average, a first time MDS participant will spend approximately 2000 euro to equip him or herself for an MDS. There are variables of course based on individual needs and the quality of items you purchase. My top tip is get the best you can afford, it will last longer and ultimately save you money. Based on experience, I would consider an absolute minimum budget to be 1250 euro.

The plus side of all this, once you have done an MDS event, the next event is considerably cheaper.

NOTE: The above list is considered to be the minimum equipment requirement. Oyher things to consider: poles, GPX watch, mp3 player… etc

HIDDEN COSTS

No matter how much you plan and prepare, there will be hidden costs. A great example being equipment… You will buy items and maybe they just don’t work for you and you need to replace them.

Other MDS participants will recommed X or Y product which places a question in your mind and then you purchase because you were curious.

You may get injured and require treatment and rehab with a great deal of additional costs.

Plan for the unplanned.

INSURANCE

Get insurance that covers you comprehensively for all eventualities. Do this the moment you sign up for a MDS event. You would not believe how many runner’s do not make it to the start line, for a multitude of reasons, only to find out that they were not covered by insurance.

MDS do offer free postponement and the opportunity to cancel free of charge. However, this is not open ended and conditions do apply. Make sure you understand what those conditions are and please note, they vary from event to event.

Look at Dogtag, BMC, Global Rescue, World Nomads, Sports Cover Direct etc – Make sure you speak with an agent and fully explain the event you are doing and what cover you need and require.

RESOURCES

WHAT IS THE COST?

How long is a piece of string…? The above is designed to provide an outline of costs broken down so that you can see, roughly, what an event will cost.

LEGENDARY

If you are taking part in Legendary, one you add entry, flights, training time (and the costs), purchasing a full equipment list and having insurance, you are looking at a staring cost of 8000 euro +/-

MDS

MDS events require all the same equipment as Legendary, however, entry fee is less and the race days are less. A starting budget would be 4000 euros +/-

CONCLUSION

Taking part in any endurance sport is never cheap. However, life is short and adventures are to be lived. Marathon des Sables offer adventures all over the world in stunning locations. What you get is superb organisation and safety – that comes at a price. When you arrive at a race, you immediately see how your race entry fee is spent, be that the welcome at the airport, the transfers, the hotel, the transfer to the desert, bivouac, on course route planning and safety, the gala dinner and awards ceremony – MDS offer a full 360 experience that has been fine tuned to make your race the most memorable experience of your life.

Interested in an MDS event in 2025?

A full calendar of dates and destinations are available HERE

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MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast 2025 – Race Summary

Posted on February 3, 2025 by talkultra

There is always something special about a first edition race. Despite all the planning, despite tight schedules, despite ticking all the boxes, there is always an element of the unknown, a curve ball nobody expected or predicted flying in and causing a problem. Gladly, no curve ball arrived on the Atlantic Coast, on the contrary, the first edition of MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast was a huge success and without hiccup.

Morocco is obviously not a new destination for MDS, Legendary is in its 39th year and MDS Morocco, MDS Morocco Trek and Handi MDS have all happened previously, so, a new event in Morocco feels comfortable.

Close to Agadir, the MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast brings something new to MDS events in Morocco and obviously brings something special to the MDS line up.

Like Fuerteventura and Peru, the ocean provides a backdrop to the race and this alone is unique. The juxtaposition of desert, dunes, beach and the roar of waves and the blue ocean make for a special environment for a race to take place.

LOGISTICS

As with all MDS events, the race is 3-stages taking place over 4-days with 3 distance options, 70km, 100km and 120km. Stage 1 and Stage 3 is the same for all participants and stage 2 is the one where a choice must be made, typically 20km, 40km or 60km. It’s a great format that makes MDS appealing for all ages and all abilities.

With 170 participants and 27 nationalities, the MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast was a great first edition. Notably, once again, female participation was around 50%. MDS are without doubt pioneering the way for female participation in their races and this must be applauded and encouraged.

Travel to Morocco is easy and transfers were provided by MDS from Marrakech (appx 6-hours) or from Agadir, with just a 40-minute transfer to the race hotel, needless to say, most people flew to Agadir.

A Saturday arrival and a Saturday departure, the race format had 2 nights in the hotel, 4-days and 3-nights in the desert and then a return to the hotel for 2-nights before onward travel.

The format provides an excellent opportunity to mix holiday and relaxation with sport.

THE EVENT

Saturday arrival was relaxed and with no commitments for the participants.

Sunday mornning and the MDS admin protocols were in place between 0900 and 1200, this is a requirement for eah participant – equipment is checked, medical certificates are checked, GPX trackers are added to packs and race numbers are provided. The whole thing is efficient, seamless and fast.

The afternoon provided an opportunity for relaxation or sight seeing and then an early dinner and bed.

Departure time for day 1 was 0300 for a 5-hour journey to the desert. On arrival, the plan, as always, was to get the runner’s underway as soon as possible.

Highway to Hell finished and the participants departed under cloudy skies at approximately 0930.

Day 1, stage 1 at 24km’s headed from an inland location and basically headed directly to the coast. The terrain was mixed, with some easy running to start the day, of course, sand featured heavily with a dune section coming just after CP1 and a final dune section concluding the race just before the finish. Temperatures reached a high of 25-degrees and it was a great first day. Bivouac awaited the runner’s and a first night in sleeping bags with self-sufficiency started. The wind blew and the temperatures dropped, a chilly night was expected. Stage summary HERE

Day 2, stage 2, intermittent rain and wind blew in off the ocean and there was a sense of dread at what this day would bring, especially for those participants who would take on the 40 or 60km distances. A challenging start and just a few hours later the weather started to clear and finally, skies cleared and the sun came to make for a beautiful day, highs reached 28-degrees. The course offered an obvious challenge mixing the best of Moroccan terrain with tsome stunning dune sections. The latter km’s running parallel to the ocean to give an epic backdrop. The race wnt into the night with the final finisher arriving just after midnight. Stage summary HERE

Day 3 was a welcome rest day. The skies were blue, the wind gentle and the warmth of the sun relaxing. It was a leisurely and relaxed start to the day. At 1130, blue and orange coats with participants walked to the beach and on the way cleared away rubbish and notably huge amounts of plastic. We race in these magical places and sadly, littering and pollution is high. The ocean obviously washing in debris daily. It was a huge campaign and yes, we may have only provided a small dent in what is a very big problem, however, it felt good and the difference afterwards was noticeable. The remainder of the day was releaxed, as per usual, mid-afternoon, a cold and refreshing drink was provided and as darkness came, most were already in sleeping bags gaining valuable rest before the final day.

Day 4, stage 3 and what a start to the day, the wind was howling from the north bringing with it, at times, torrential rain. Runner’s were ready for the challenge though, with 2 starts, 0800 and 0930 for the top-25, the day got underway and gladly, by 0830 the rain stopped. However, the wind did not. The wind blew and blew, providing a constant headwind and relentless sand storms for the whole 27km’s. It was an epic and special day. Yes, it was hard but boy was it memorable. The joy, the emotion and the tears at the finish made the medal only more special. From the finish line, buses were waiting and as each was filled, they then departed back to Agadir for hotel comforts – shower, buffet dinner and a night in a bed with sheets and comfort. Stage summary HERE

The following day was one of relaxation. Dinner was served at 1900 and then followed at 2000 hrs with a closing ceremony, awards and the showing of the MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast movie. The atmosphere was electric, the feedback incredible, the emotion high, it was a very memorable ceremony that only confirmed the success of the event. An outdoor DJ and dancing concluded the night and brought to a close this first edition.

Saturday and onward journies home.

NOTES AND CONSIDERATIONS

MDS events are meant to challenge you both physically and mentally, some challenge more than others. MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast certainly falls in the latter category with challenging weather and varying temperatures. Having experienced 20 MDS events all over the world, my top-tip is ‘be prepared!’ Deserts are not always hot, they are not always dry and they are not always calm. Have with you a waterproof/ windproof layer, have with you a warm layer (lightweight down or primaloft jacket) and make sure you have eye protection. Trust me, those who did not have sunglasses or goggles for stage 3 suffered badly trying to move forward in a headwind for 27km’s.

Be prepared with a variety of food choices and undesrtstand that what tastes good at home, may not taste good the desert. A balance of sweet and savoury s good and take note, as days pass, the demand for sweet becomes less.

Prepare the mind for the challenge. Understand the WHY you are doing the event and be prepared for anything. The body is an amazing thing that could do incredible things, however, it needs to work in harmony and synergy with the mind to achieve your goals.

CONCLUSION

MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast was a huge success. We were all tested by the weather but this only made the event more special and memorable. The MDS event team have called it the Viavaldi race as we had all four seasons. The Atlantic Coast brings something special to Morocco and in contrast to Legendary, MDS Morocco and MDS Trek, the terrain is different, unique and of course, the ocean as a backdrop is special. No doubt, this event will grow to become an MDS favourite. January is great timing, what a great way to start a year and globally, few races take place so early in the year making this an easy option for those looking for something special post Christmas.

Full race results HERE

Interested in an MDS event in 2025? A full calendar of dates and destinations are available HERE

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Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

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MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast 2025 – Stage 3

Posted on February 1, 2025 by talkultra

The wind blew strong during the night causing a restless night for many. To add to the fatigue, rain arrived as the runner’s started to pack and get ready for the third and final stage.

It was an ominous start and it was clear that there was high anxiety for each participant, with 27km’s to go, this was not going to be an easy last day.

The first wave left at 0800 and the top-25 departed at 0930. Gladly, the rain disappeared, however, the wind did not…

It was a northerly headwind for the entire 27km’s creating some of the most memorable moments and images of any MDS event.

Runner’s battled, heads down, hands shielding faces and they fought what would seem like a never ending battle against nature to the finish line.

But the finish line came for all and with it, great emotion.

Stage 3 of the first edition of MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast was brutally beautiful. Relentless impressive dunes, the Atlantic Ocean to the left and the final 10km’s along the beach made for a completely memorable MDS.

Tears, joy, emotion, relief and the bling of a medal all made the journey worthwhile.

The journey for each participant unique. The experience unique. But there was one common thread…

‘We survived and experienced a truly memorable journey along the Atlantic Coast of Morocco.’

Full race results HERE

Interested in an MDS event in 2025? A full calendar of dates and destinations are available HERE

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MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast 2025 – Stage 2

Posted on January 28, 2025 by talkultra

Stage 2 of MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast and the option to choose the stage distance: 20km, 40km or 60km?

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.

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.

Gladly, by midday, blue skies and sun started to appear, however, the wind increased in strength and continued to do so into the night.

With epic landscape, stunning dunes, there was much to appreciate in this stage and despite the weather, runner’s were constantly smiling.

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.

In the 120km, ranking is as follows:

RACE LEADERS 1 – Yoann STUCK 2 – Göran SCHREY 3 – Stephan BAWEY

WOMEN RACE LEADERS 1 – Anne-Caroline KUSNIERZ 2 – Janina BECK 3 – Adele THOMAS

In the 100km, ranking is as follows:

RACE LEADERS 1 – Listy MAZILLE 2 – Benoit BERCHEBRU 3 – Adrien LHERMITTE

WOMEN RACE LEADERS 1 – Listy MAZILLE 2 – Tiphaine SANQUER 3 – Joana TEIXEIRA

In the 70km, ranking is as follows:

RACE LEADERS 1 – Christian HARTEL 2 – Justine DEBOTÉ 3 – Cyril MALEJAC

WOMEN RACE LEADERS 1 – Justine DEBOTÉ 2 – Vanessa CUADRADO 3 – Audrey SCOTTO

The stage, for many, goes into the night. The last runner will arrive late, maybe early the next day.

Tomorrow, a rest day of relaxation and recovery before the third and final stage.

Full race results HERE

Interested in joining an MDS event in 2025? A full calendar of dates and destinations are available HERE

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facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

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MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast 2025 – Stage 1

Posted on January 27, 2025 by talkultra

The 2025 Marathon des Sables calendar kicks-off the a new event, MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast, a great addition to the MDS line-up and now the fourth event in the country, the others, Legendary, MDS Morocco and MDS Morocco Trek.

Located close to Agadir, the MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast explores a new area of this magical country.

For stage 1 it was a very early start of 0300 for the drive from Agadir and the start line.

Kicking-off at 0930, 170 runners from 27 nationalities started the 23km journey with 344m+ heading north to the coastline of the Atlantic Coast. Of the 170 participants, 50% of the field are women, MDS once again pioneering the way for female participation in ultra races.

The day started with hard pack runnable terrain making for easy km’s before a dune passage, followed by a gorge and finally high dunes with the glimmer of the ocean in the distance. Cloud and a chill in the air soon moved away to leave blue skies and daily high temperatures of 27-degrees.

Yoann Stuck and Listy Mazille dominated the day. Yoann finishing the day in a super-fast 01:49:52 ahead of Göran Schrey and Stephan Bawey, 02:01:30 and 02:01:52 respectively.

For the women, Listy crossed the line in 02:16:58, a huge gap opened up with Janina Beck 2nd in 02:39:43. Anne-Caroline Kusinierz was 3rd in 02:43:08.

Full race results HERE

Tomorrow, stage 2, is ‘the long day’ when participants can choose one of three distances, 19.7km, 41.2km or 54.5km.

Interested in joining an MDS event in 2025? A full calendar of dates and destinations are available HERE

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MDS Morocco Atlantic Coast 2025 – Countdown Time

Posted on January 17, 2025 by talkultra

A new year and a new race for Marathon des Sables. MDS returns to Morocco, this time, the Atlantic Coast!

First editions are always special, and anticipation is high to explore the white dunes of this magical part of Morocco.

As with all MDS events, Trek excluded, participants will choose either 70, 100 or 120km’s over 3 stages in 4 days.

Located close to Agadir, on arrival in Morocco, participants will spend two nights in a hotel for relaxation and admin protocols. After the race, everyone will return to the same hotel for post-race relaxation and of course, on the final night, a gala dinner, awards and party.

2026 participants will be pioneers of this new Moroccan adventure.

RACE FORMAT

Participants choose 3 different distances: 70, 100 or 120km,divided into 3 stages.

Typical distances are as follows:

Stage 1: 25km
Stage 2: around 20, 40 or 60km
Stage 3: 25km

Stages can be completed at your own pace: walking or running.

PROGRAM

Jan 25th arrival in Morocco and night at hotel.

Jan 26th technical and medical checks, night in the hotel.

Jan 27th transfer to the desert and stage 1, night in bivouac.

Jan 28th stage 2 and night in bivouac.

Jan 29th rest day and night in bivouac.

Jan 30th stage 3 and finish followed by transfer to hotel.

Jan 31st relaxation day with awards and dinner in the eve, night at the hotel.

Feb 1st onward travel.

THE EVENT

Vast streteches of brilliant whiteness, the white dunes of the Atlantic Coast are special and an epic backdrop for this new MDS event. Away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, an epic adventure awaits everyone. Agadir and the surrounding coastline also offers an opportunity for additional exploration; epic coastline, beaches, tradition, culture and an immersive Moroccan experience.

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 as 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.

The MDS events are a one-week sporting adventure that combines discovery, travel, meeting new people and physically challenging yourself in a self-sufficient manner.

Read MDS THE ULTIMATE GUIDE HERE

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.

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MDS Fuerteventura, MDS Morocco and MDS Morocco Trek 2025 – Booking Starts January 15th.

Posted on January 8, 2025 by talkultra

January 15th 2025 12:00pm (cet) three MDS events go on sale for the 2025 calendar.

MDS Fuerteventura – September 20the to September 27th.

MDS Morocco – October 10th to October 18th.

MDS Trek Morocco – October 19th to October 28th.

FUERTEVENTURA – September 20th to September 27th.

2024 was a significant year for the MDS, it saw the return of MDS Fuerteventura exploring a new part of the island and with a capped entrant list it was not only a sell out but a huge success.

You can read daily summaries of the 2024 edition and explore the route via images:
MDS Fuerteventura Stage 1
MDS Fuerteventura Stage 2
MDS Fuerteventura Stage 3

With an isolated bivouac close to the ocean, Fuerteventura brings something very special to the MDS portfolio. In many respects it can draw comparisons to MDS Peru, however, it does not have the epic dunes that the Ica desert provides. With stunning cliffs, runnable terrain and epic views, this is one race that must be experienced.

More MDS Fuerteventura details HERE

MOROCCO – October 10th to October 18th.

MDS Morocco follows in the footsteps and the history of The Legendary. Taking place in the same area of the Sahara, this race is ultimately a mini Legendary and as such holds a special place for all participants. The 2024 edition was notable for two reasons… Freak weather – believe it or not, rain and flooding in the Sahara! It made for a unique and special edition with some unforgettable visual stories. Secondly, the Handi category which saw wheelchair athletes take on the Sahara with the help of a team.

Experience the 2024 edition below:
MDS Morocco Stage 1
MDS Morocco Stage 1
MDS Morocco Stage 1

The 2025 edition of the race will once again pave the way for the MDS brand and the history of the race.

TREK – October 19th to October 28th.

MDS Trek was new for 2024. Combining much of what we see and experience in a normal MDS event, the TREK format added more comfort (2-person tents with mats,) no self-sufficiency (in regard to food,) showers, and after the stages, you will have the opportunity to relax with a daily massage* for better recovery, enjoy cold drinks* from the available bar, and share convivial moments in the social areas.

*extra charge locally

Combining mental enrichment with workshop conferences, the TREK still offers the classic MDS distances of 70-120km but at a more relaxed pace and a slightly different format due to the very special ‘star night!’

Here’s the approximate breakdown of distances:

Stage 1: 14 or 24km
Stage 2: 12 or 15km
Stage 3 – day 1: 19 or 31km
Stage 3 – day 2: 19 or 26km
Stage 4: 13 or 24km

A perfect event for those looking for an introduction to stage racing, an active holiday or just an escape with a loved one or friend. An opportunity to experience the DNA of the MDS, the 2024 edition was a huge success and returns for 2025, bigger and better! Accessible to everyone, this format is perfect for those who want to explore the desert, make new connections, push their physical limits, and all while maintaining a level of comfort.

More TREK details HERE

What is the MDS?

The MARATHON DES SABLES is a unique adventure, shared by thousands of enthusiasts since 1986.

MDS MAIN WEBSITE HERE

The MDS events are a one-week sporting adventure that combines discovery, travel, meeting new people and physically challenging yourself in a self-sufficient manner.

MDS TREK was introduced in 2024 and is a 10-day adventure at a more relaxed pace with extra comfort, perfect for an active holiday, training or as an introduction to desert stage racing.

Read MDS THE ULTIMATE GUIDE HERE

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MDS Raid Namibia – New for 2025!

Posted on December 4, 2024 by talkultra

2025 will see a new MDS event, the MDS RAID NAMIBIA.

This event will bring something unique and special to the MDS portfolio and certainly, it will be an event for the more experienced participant.

Unlike other MDS events that offer 70, 100 or 120km route options over 3-stages in 4-days, RAID will offer just one distance, somewhere between 100-120km distance over 3-stages and 4-days. Importantly, there will be no ‘rest day,’ and on the 2nd stage there will be no return to bivouac, instead, there will be a ‘star night’ which will see the runner’s sleep in the middle of the dunes.

For safety, this will not be a solo event. Runner’s will complete in pairs, rest assured, if you enter solo, you will be paired with another participant.

Adding to the RAID concept, there will be no classic checkpoints, just water stations. Route marking will be minimal and therefore this will place more emphasis on the participants to be autonomous and confident.

For edition one, just 80-participants (40 teams of 2), will toe the line.

While this level of autonomy will not appeal to some, the sense of adventure will most definitely appeal to many. Without doubt, this is a hark back to how the original Marathon des Sables concept was created.

The race format will be as follows:

Stage 1 25 to 30km.

Stage 2 will be 45 to 55km’s, however, this distance will be split with an overnight star night. After the sleep, the remaining distance will completed on day 3 returning to bivouac. Typically, for MDS events, this day would be a complete rest day.

Stage 3 will be 25 to 30km.

Time limits will be based on 3km per hour.

Entries open December 11th 2024 at midday CET.

ENTER HERE

SCHEDULE

Participants will arrive in Windhoek Saturday April 26th, night in a hotel.
Technical checks and briefing April 27th, night in a hotel.
Stage 1 April 28th with bivouac night.
Stage 2 part 1 April 29th with star night.
Stage 2 part 2 April 30th with bivouac night.
Stage 3 May 1st and then overnight in hotel
Free day in Swakopmund and then awards/ gala dinner May 2nd
Transfer to Windhoek May 3rd and onward travel

NAMIB and the RAID

The oldest and driest desert in the world, the Namib is the perfect destination for the RAID concept. With dunes over 300m high, this environment is one of the most impressive in the world. Known for incredible diversity, intense heat, strong winds, demanding terrain, flora and fauna, RAID will be a unique challenge. An ability to move well in soft sand will be an integral part of the challenge, needless to say, gaiters will be an essential item. Add self-sufficiency, a star night, minimal marking and just water stations, RAID is going to be something very special.

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.

Read MDS THE ULTIMATE GUIDE HERE

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Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

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Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS Peru 2025 – Return to the magic of the ICA Desert

Posted on November 30, 2024 by talkultra

MDS Peru returns in 2025. I was at the original full-distance event in 2017, it was clear then that Peru and the Ica desert was a very special place.

The race returned in the ‘HMDS’ format in 2028, 2019 and 2022. Now, all HMDS events rebranded as MDS, we eagerly anticipate the 2025 MDS Peru that will take place from November 29th to December 6th, what better way to kick-off early Christmas celebrations and end a year!

Participants will arrive in Lima on November 29th (or before) and then stay in Lima for 2 nights at an official race hotel.

November 30th will have technical and medical checks, the protocol identical to other MDS events.

On the morning of Dec 1st, an early morning transfer to the start of stage 1.

As with all MDS events, the race will take place over 3 stages will last 4 days.

Day 1/ Stage 1 will be 25 to 30km.
Day 2/ Stage 2 offer three distance options, 20, 40 or 60km.
Day 3 is a rest day.
Day 4 will see the commencement of the race with Stage 3, again, 25 to 30km and then two overnight stays at Hotel Paracas.

The following day is a day of leisure and then the awards ceremony and gala dinner.

Dec 6th will see participants return to Lima and onward travel.

A key consideration for participants, if Peru is on your wish list, due to the complexities of travel and logistics, Peru will not be a yearly MDS destination, so, now is the time to sign up and experience the magic this destination offers.

The Ica desert is unique, isolated from any civilization, this is a week of total disconnection. As bivouacs go, the one at MDS Peru is arguably the most impressive and unique, located on the edge of the Pacific Ocean.

Should you require to arrive before or extend your Peru adventure, there will be the option to explore Machu Picchu, the historic city of Cusco and the Mountain of 7 Colours with MDS partner Coltur.

MDS Peru will open for entry on Dec 11th at midday CET. Importantly, MDS have stipulated that a minimum sign-up of 200 participants will be required for the 2025 event to proceed, so, don’t hesitate to join this unique adventure of a lifetime. For the first 100 to sign-up, a discount is available, 2350 euro instead of 2650 euro.

Enter HERE

What is the MDS?

The MARATHON DES SABLES is a unique adventure, shared by thousands of enthusiasts since 1986.

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.

Read MDS THE ULTIMATE GUIDE HERE

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS Jordan 2024 Race Summary

Posted on November 11, 2024 by talkultra

MDS Jordan brought to a conclusion the 2024 season of MDS events. It has been quite a year and since Fuerteventura in September, the events have followed one after another, MDS Morocco, MDS Trek Morocco and now MDS Jordan.

Jordan has become so popular as a destination, two events now exist in a year, May and November. Dates for 2025 are May 9-16 and November 1-8.

For the 4th edition, concluding on the 8th November 2024, 599 participants were signed up from 25 different nationalities. Once again, MDS pioneer the way with more women participants than men, 55% to 45%.

Come race day, 520 toed the line over the 3 race distances.

249 in the 120km distance.
190 in the 100km distance.
81 in the 70km distance.

Full race results are available HERE via LiveTrail.

Jordan is not the easiest place to get to and typically, it will require two flights. Istanbul being a popular connecting point but many other options exist. Long haul travel always has potential problems and for the MDS Jordan, participants and staff had several problems with delays, gladly, everyone arrived on time. However, there is some general good advice here for future participants, allow yourself some time flexibility for arriving in Jordan, delays of 12-hours or even 1-day existed for some! Use reputable airlines with good track history, the cheapest option is not always the best!

The current Israel – Hamas war quite obviously was on the minds of participants and some were concerned about travel. However, while the general advice from most governments was to ‘exercise caution,’ there was no reason not to travel. Having spoken to participants post-race, nobody at any time felt safety or security was at risk. The war however ‘may’ have had some impact on travel, it’s difficult to know?

The MDS team do a fantastic job of facilitating everyones arrival in Amman and they provide a bus transfer to the Crowne Plaza hotel which is located on the Dead Sea. The journey takes under 90-minutes.

The hotel is huge with excellent facilities, a good restaurant, bar, meeting rooms, multiple pools, spa, gym and of course, the Dead Sea is on its doorstep. It’s the perfect place pre and post-race. Another great benefit is that its size allows all competitors and MDS staff to stay at the same location. A great bonus for admin day and the post-race awards and gala dinner.

The Dead Sea is obviously an iconic place, located -430m below sea level. It is land locked between Jordan and Israeli occupied west bank in the west and Israel in the south. It is called the Dead Sea due to high levels of salt that make it impossible for any life form to live.

With admin day done, the race got underway with a very early departure on Monday Nov 4th with an approximate 4-hour journey to Wadi Rum.

Daily Summaries 2024:

Stage 1 Summary

Stage 2 Summary

Stage 3 Summary

Stage 1

Stage 1 was scheduled to start at 0930am with 27.4km and 980m+ with arrival at bivouac. A point-to-point day with two Cp’s and a cut-off time of 2000hrs.

The day was a shock for many! It’s a day of stunning views, epic vistas, remarkable landscape and a great deal of soft sand making the journey very hard work. If you are signed up for a future MDS Jordan, be prepared for a tough day 1.

In bivouac, as per all MDS events, individual tents are in circular pods of 8. This is great for group friendship but also allows some privacy.

While MDS events operate on the same formula: 3-stages over 4-days with full self-sufficiency, the exemption coming with rationed water provision and a place to sleep provided by MDS. I cannot emphasise enough that participants need to be prepared for the challenge they are undertaking. Weather and environmental condition vary from event to event and year on year. Just because Jordan was hot at one edition, it does not mean it will always be hot! Look at MDS Morocco in October, rain, thunderstorms and flooding. The 4th edition of MDS Jordan had a very cold first night. For those who did not bring a warm jacket, a warm sleeping bag or additional layers, they had a very cold and troubled night. My TOP TIP is always bring a windproof jacket such as the WAA wind running jacket as an absolute minimum and my high recommendation is to bring a light weight down jacket. Many down jackets exist these days and the top quality products are well under 200g, the Nordisk Y Strato is 165g for example. The advantage of a down jacket is warmth and comfort while sitting around post-race and in addition, on cold nights, you have a very warm layer to wear inside your sleeping bag should it be required. Make sure you have a Buff and cover your head, most heat is lost here!

One advantage of the tent pods is the creation of a communal fire place, in Jordan, most pods created a fire place and this was used for cooking and warmth.

Stage 2

With a troubled night for many, stage 2 would prove a challenge. However, the great thing about MDS events is the possibility to choose how easy or how hard you want the adventure to be. Of course, all things a re relative based on individual ability and desires. The stage had two starts, 0700 and 0800, the top runner’s in the latter start.

At two key points, participants can have a choice, the first option is to choose 20km’s. The second option to choose 40km’s. At the second option point if you choose not to take 40km’s, you must do 60km’s.

249 chose to take the 60km route, 190 in the 40km and 81 the 70km distance.

It was a challenging day, once again a great deal of soft-sand but considerably less vertical gain. For those who took the 60km route, they were treated to some additional technical terrain. At all times, the impressive Wadi Rum landscape was mind-blowing irrespective of the distance chosen.

The day proved to be a long one for some with the last competitor arriving at 0300am the next day and many of the MDS team there to welcome.

Rest Day

It was a welcome day of rest and an opportunity for everyone to get some rest and recovery.

Competitors as per usual, looked after feet, ate as much as possible, slept and took advantage of the local terrain to get some high viewpoints to take in the amazing landscape.

TOP TIP – space blankets that are gold/silver provide excellent options for keeping tents cooler in the day, silver side out. And at night, if required, use them gold side out to keep a tent warmer.

In the afternoon, local fisherman gave a music show and then ice cold drinks arrived for every participant via a camel.

Of course, Born To Be Alive was played and bivouac turned into a desert rave.

Stage 3

Once again, two starts, 0430am and 0630am. Ahead, 26km’s and 733m+ on a point-to-point route that would provide everyone some of the best views that Wadi Rum has to offer. The large dune and the views from the top a highlight.

Once at the finish, tears, joy and laughter, a hard earned medal the reward.

A transfer to Petra post-race for an opportunity to experience one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

Everyone was back at the Crowne Plaza for around 2000hrs. Of course, it’s all about priorities, several showers, fresh clothes and then dinner in the restaurant.

Final Day

Was relaxed, a lazy breakfast, time by the pool, a swim in the Dead Sea and then at 1600hrs the awards ceremony took place followed by the MDS Jordan movie.

Dinner followed outside with remarkable night time views of the Dead Sea. DJ Robin as per usual played some banging tunes and the party and disco went on into the night and the early hours of the morning.

Another MDS Jordan complete.

Finally, while many things are transferable between all MDS events: clothing, pack, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, food etc, one thing is important and it cannot be emphasised enough, be prepared.

Plan for the best and worst case scenarios, plan for intense heat, plan for the cold, imagine your worst case scenario and have a solution. MDS events are self-sufficient for a reason, they bring a challenge and dynamic that is not present at other races, how you deal with it is very much part of the event.

Looking ahead!

Now is time to recover, recoup and plan ahead for 2025. There are no shortage of events. Here is hoping we get to share more time at a MDS event soon: