Countdown begins to the first edition of MDS Cappadocia, June 22nd to June 28th. A week long adventure in one of the most iconic locations in Turkey. A moonscape region carved by the variables of time and nature, famous for its layered history and unique geological features.
Day 1 Arrival in Turkey, technical and medical checks.
Stage 1 (day 2) will begin in Sunday June 23rd with two distances, 25km or 30km and a night in bivouac.
Stage 2 (day 3) Considered ‘the long day’ will have three distance option, 20, 40 or 60km with a night in bivouac.
Day 4 a rest day.
Stage 3 (day 5) like stage 1, will offer two distance, 25 or 30km followed by a night in a hotel.
Day 6 a day of leisure and in the evening, gala dinner and awards and a night in the hotel.
Day 7 travel home.
MDS Cappadocia, like the other MDS locations (excluding MDSThe Legendary) allows participants the option to choose between 3 distance formats: 70, 100 or 120 km, spread over 4-days/ 3 stages. These distances are given as an indication and are likely to be revised downwards according to the type of terrain and the difference in altitude of the routes. The event is accessible to everyone, runner or walker, with generous time barriers to enable completion – 98% finish.
However, just like The Legendary, self-sufficiency is part of the race and therefore participants must carry all they need for the race duration (inc food) the exception, water and a tent.
In principal, the requirement per person is as follows:
WAA Ultrabag 20l with two water bottles (or similar)
Sleeping bag and mat (mat is optional but recommended)
Clothing for running – Hat, shirt, shorts, socks and appropriate run shoes with gaiters (when applicable) for desert running.
Sunglasses
Warm layer – (down jacket, windbreaker, merino top etc)
Personal hygiene products inc sun cream and toilet paper.
Items for food preparation (stove (no gas) if you require hot water, bowl, spork etc)
Food – Find the right balance between freeze-dried meals, salty snacks, compotes, soups… Without forgetting the food for the race (especially during the long stage): cereal bars, gels or other energy sources. It is strongly recommended that each runner has a minimum of 2000 k/calories per race day
Any luxuries?
The race has Mandatory Equipment
WAA Ultra Bag 20L backpack or equivalent
Capacity of 1.5 liters of water
A sleeping bag
Headlamp (which must be turned on after dark) + 1 complete set of spare batteries or battery
10 safety pins
Lighter
Whistle
Metal blade knife
Skin antiseptic
Signal mirror
Survival blanket
8 soup cubes (2 per day) to help the rehydration
Tube of sunscreen
100 euros in cash
Passport or identity card (depending of the destination)
Official MDS medical certificate completed by a doctor (form available 3 months before the race).
Weight is key, participants need to aim for the lightest weight possible without compromising what they need for an efficient and comfortable race. Remember, runner’s need to carry everything for their chosen race distance.
In comparison to other MDS locations (Jordan, Morocco, Fuerteventura etc), Cappadocia will bring a new challenge and environment. Located in the centre of Anatolia, Cappadocia is characterised by its fairy chimneys and Troglodyte dwellings carved in the rock. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This terrain is rolling with considerably less sand and the landscape is filled with fascinating cone-shaped rock formations. On good weather days, the sky is filled with hot air balloons, a key attraction for this area.
If you’d like to follow the first edition of MDS Cappadocia, a daily report and images will be posted on this website.
Interested in another MDS event?
Entries open in June for the 2025 MDS The Legendary HERE and new for 2024, MDS TREK MOROCCO which brings a new concept to the MDS format, read HERE for information and register from June 12th HERE.
Shoes are personal. Run shoes are very personal. Quite simply, we are all unique and our needs when running vary greatly depending on the distance we are running, the terrain we are running on and how long we will be out for. It is why so many shoes exist.
Last year I said my shoe of the year was the Merrell Agility Peak 5. It is a shoe that ticked all the boxes, comfort, great foot hold, excellent grip and a fantastic all rounder for trail and mountain running. If I was only allowed one trail shoe, the Agility Peak 5 would be my choice.
It’s fair to say, that Merrell are still fighting an uphill battle to be taken seriously in the run world, especially when compared to the giants like Hoka, adidas, Brooks, Asics, Salomon and so on… Take note, Merrell should definitely be on your consideration list.
With the announcement of the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx and my love for the Agility Peak 5, I was very keen to give this new incarnation plenty of testing.
In contrast to the Agility Peak 5, the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx is a completely different beast. Less cushioning, lower weight, lower profile and lower drop. It’s a very specific shoe.
To draw a comparison, the Agility Peak 5 is like an everyday car for the family, plenty of room, comfort and great for a full day out. The MTL Long Sky 2 is much more a 2-seat sports car that is has a very specific use and some comfort is missing in exchange for speed.
So, although the name has ‘Long’ in the title, don’t be fooled in to thinking this is a long distance shoe. It is not. The most relevant part of the shoes name is ‘Sky’ and the reference to skyrunning which takes place in tough, challenging and technical terrain and mostly over shorter distances between 20 and 50km.
A neutral shoe, in comparison to the previous model (the Long Sky) the drop has been reduced from 8mm to 4mm. This is significant is it gives a much greater contact with the ground and control. Cushioning is 19.5mm at the front and 23.5mm at the rear. The outsole is Vibram MegaGrip with 5mm lugs.
A key feature is the new MATRYX upper which has more durability and is designed to keep the foot cooler with greater wicking.
They have a gusseted tongue for excellent foot hold. Cushioning is via EVA foam insole and dual FloatPro Foam.
There is a temperature regulating footbed. A UK9/ EU44 is 259g and sizing is true to size. The shoe is 15% lighter than the previous model
THE SHOE
It’s a great looking shoe and one that immediately says speed. The white to multi fade orange and pink is striking.
Slipping the shoe on, the foot hold is immediately noticeable and with the laces adjusted and the sock-like fit, there is no movement at all. Exactly what you want from a shoe that will handle mountainous and technical terrain. The heel area is very minimal and there is a raised padded area inside that is designed to grip and hold – it certainly does, arguably they are the most secure shoe I have experienced in this area. The front of the shoe opens up to provide enough width for toe splay, but not too much room so that you would lose control when precision is required.
With a 19.5/23.5mm cushioning, this shoe is designed to provide a compromise offering cushioning but not losing ground feel and control. As mentioned before, the ‘Long’ in the name is relative and for most people, this is not a long distance shoe.
The upper construction is minimal and notably so at the front, there is token toe protection. Don’t be fooled though, this MATRYX upper is tough and durable.
The shoe immediately feels comfortable when you put them on. I strongly suggest you play around with socks to find out what works best for you, I noticed a huge difference in feel between a lightweight sock and a slightly thicker merino sock.
Merrell say the shoe is good for up to 50km. For sure, yes, 50km is possible, but this depends on the runner and the speed they are going. A top elite mountain runner may tick off 50km in 4 to 5 hours, whereas, someone else may take 10-hours, so, use caution.
The MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx is designed to be agile and nimble, they are! But this comes at a price on comfort and protection. I had expected more protection and ultimately, for me, that just wasn’t there. I could feel stones, rocks and tree roots through the shoe which did surprise me. They feel thin!
They are very flexible and the propulsive phase is very good. On the correct feet, this is a fast shoe.
The biggest problem for me was the heel area. In one area they are brilliant, the hold is fantastic, they are secure and there is no slipping. However, this hold comes from the raised cushioned area with the heel, no matter what I did or tried, this just rubbed and caused blisters on both feet. I must caveat here, I never get blisters. So, this just made the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx unwearable for me.
The outsole is Vibram MegaGrip with 5mm lugs. Ideal for technical terrain providing grip when required on rock, gravel, light mud and varying terrain. I am still not 100% convinced or confident of Vibram on wet rock, especially when compared to VJ Sport or the Continental grip on adidas shoes.
Conclusion
There is a great deal to like in the Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx and if you are looking for something light, nimble, fast with ground feel for short mountain days or racing, this is for you. However, this all comes at a price. It’s a specific shoe for a specific task, just like a Formula One car. This is not the only shoe to have or use. It’s too specific for everyday runs, so, the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx should be added to an already existing shoe collection and they should be reached for and used on special days. Given that Merrell sponsor the Skyrunner World Series, it’s unsurprising that this shoe is designed to specifically perform on this terrain.
The iconic race of sea, to summit and back to the sea has returned to its roots and the people of La Palma. Few races, anywhere in the world, have the magic of Transvulcania.
It’s more than a race, it’s an experience that transcends running. A 360 journey of location, culture, emotion and a journey to the core of what makes the sport of trail and mountain running so special, a unified glory of experience.
From the early morning start at the Fuencaliente lighthouse, the pounding drums and guitar of AC/DC and the words, THUNDER, THUNDER, THUNDERSTRUCK…!
The blackness illuminated by the glow of 100’s of headlights and then the upward journey begins through a landscape that makes the most well travelled smile with joy at the magic the GR131 route brings.
Los Canarious offers an opportunity for refreshment before single-track of black sand and rock weaves through pine trees and the eventual magnificence of the route of the volcanoes coinciding with the first light of a new day. A glimpse to the right, the sky a mixture of orange and blue, Tenerife and Teide visible and suddenly you feel like a plane, floating above the clouds in what many considering a life-changing moment.
The route winds and climbs down the spine of La Isla Bonita. From the highest point in the lower sections of the GR131 (1908m) in the Cumbre Vieja, the route drops to the micro-climate of El Pilar, one-third approximately of the route completed.
From here, cloud encapsulates the runner, some easy trails eventually give way to climbing, a myriad of single-track that weaves left and right and finally you break through the cloud to the most amazing views of Caldera de Taburiente National Park.
Reventon arrives, it’s one of the highlights of the route. With 40km’s covered, the GR131 is now above 2000m and ever so slowly the route creeps over the next 10km’s to the highest point at Roques de los Muchachos at 2403m, a rollercoaster ride of undulating and at times technical trails that offer a 360 panorama of this stunning island.
What goes up, eventually must come down and what follows is a 16km drop back to the ocean; a relentless knee, quad and mind blowing war of attrition that must be overcome. The iconic zig-zag descent provides an entrance to Tazacorte beach and the final aid station.
Beach gives way to canyon, canyon gives way to weaving paths through banana plantations before what seems like never-ending road before the glorious arrival in Los Llanos and the roar of the Palmero people.
This is La Palma.
This is Transvulcania.
This is La Palma
The 2024 Race
Men:
Dakota and Jeshrun
As expected, the early pace was fast and a core group of pre-race favourites dictated the pace with 2023 champion, Dakota Jones at the front. Behind, Jeshrun Small, Jon Albon, Tom Evans, Dmitry Mityaev, and more.
Jon Albon leading the chase group
As the km’s passed and the arrival of El Pilar came, Dakota suffered from the early pace and now, pre-race favourite, Jon Albon took over at the front with an inspired Jeshrun Small. Tom Evans, Thibaut Baronian and Dmitry Mityaev followed.
The elastic finally snapped and Jon made his move and opened a gap. It was on the final descent that Jeshrun relinquished second to his adidas Terrex team mates, Tom who had moved up from fifth and Dmitry who were now charging to the ocean in pursuit of The North Face athlete.
Jon arrived at Tazacorte and a course record looked possible. But as the climb to the finish came, the early pace and now heat was taking its toll. Jon was having to dig deep and the behind, the Terrex duo were pushing each other, Dmitry looking stronger than Tom.
But Dmitry did not attack… Maybe he didn’t know the 4-minute gap to Jon at the beach was reducing with each stride?
Victory
Jon crossed the line, exhausted, the 2024 Transvulcania champion. Behind, less than 2-minutes later, the duo arrived, hand-in-hand.
There was no course record but it was darn close. One hell of a race.
Tom and Dmitry
At the finish line, Albon (7h.03:10) crossed first, followed by Dmitry Mytiaev (7h.05:16) and Tom Evans who entered together at de finish line (7h.05:17)
Women:
Ida a three times champion
Ruth Croft set the early pace and what a pace! For much of the day, it was a display of style, power and confidence. The performance only faltered at Roques de los Muchachos when a charging Ida Nilsson, three times Transvulcania champion, closed the gap to seconds.
Ruth – incredible
It gave Ruth the wake-up call to push hard to the line, and push she did, not only resulting in victory but a new course record. It was a stunning performance that only confirms that currently, along with Courtney Dauwalter, Ruth Croft is one of the most exciting and dominant trail runners in the world.
Champ and new CR
It was glory day for Ida Nilsson, a La Palma favourite who ran another stunning race to secure second.
As always happens, there was drama behind and it was Nepali, Sunmaya Budha who finished third looking very fresh… There is more to come from this strong woman!
Sunmaya
Ruth Croft (8h.02:49, record) won, Ida Nilsson (8h.16:32) finished second, and Sunmaya Budha (8h.20:31) closed the podium.
The Story:
As with all races, we have champions and we celebrate them. But the story of the 2024 Transvulcania is a return of the race to the island and people of La Palma.
“I didn’t have the day I wanted today,” said one runner. “But how can I be disappointed? It’s such a privilege to be on this island with these people enjoying what is one of the greatest races and places in the world.”
It was a sentiment that was echoed by many. There is something special here on this Canary Island.
I for one am already waiting for the 2025 countdown. This race should be a fixture for every dreaming trail runner and trust me, once experienced, one edition is not enough.
The boss, Luis Alberto Hernando, his last victory.
Finally, I give a special (personal) mention to a true inspiration of Transvulcania, the Maestro ‘Luis Alberto Hernando’, a three time champion of the race. He told me before the start, I am now 1-hour slower and I will be happy with top-20. He placed 12th after Thibaut Baronian acknowledging ‘The Boss’ on the line, bowing, and allowing the master to pass. What a moment.
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 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.
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 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
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
Episode 245 of Talk Ultra is with Ferdinand Charriau, head of communications for Marathon des Sable – The Legendary. In this podcast we discuss the final details as the 2024 edition is just weeks away.
The stock cubes provide a better and less aggressive provision of salt.
Water rations will not be as strict as in previous years, for example, at a CP, if you have 2 x 750ml bottles and a 500ml soft-flask, you can fill all three.
A 1.5ltr bottle will be issued at CP1 on the ‘long day’ so that it is possible to have a 3ltr capacity for the ‘long day!’
CP distances will be as usual 10 to 13km apart. HOWEVER, there will be intermediate water stations now, say at 6km +/- so you can access additional water.
There will be cold water at CP’s (not to drink) but the medical team will pour cold water to cool body temperature.
Stage starts will be between 0600 and 0730 depending on the stage and the length. For example, the ‘long-day’ will start at 0600. Most days will start around 0700 to 0730.
Email in printed format will not be provided. There will also be no email tent. However, there will be IP phones available for emergency use only. MDS ideally do not want you to use them, but, the option is there.
Mobile phones are allowed BUT you must not use them in bivouac – You must leave the camp in communicate in an isolated place. However, the MDS recommend being disconnected – be with yourself, and your tent mates.
Foot care will be as good if not better than before.
There will be fast response vehicles too – extra security en-route
There will also be medical runners – They will wear an orange bib and they will run the route for immediate response on the course.
There will be live tracking – access via the MDS website so people at home can follow.
Fuel blocks – If you have problems taking fuel. Fuel will be available in B1 and there will be enough for well over 200 people.
There will be a MDS shop in B1 selling all the mandatory kit – just in case!
Make sure you travel wearing your run apparel and carry you pack.
Meeting point is Ouarzazate airport on Friday 12th from 0800.
Be patient on arrival for passport control.
Bus transfer to B1 is approximately 6-hours. You will be given the road book. Also a lunch pack will be provided.
At B1 you will be provided a 5Ltr bottle of water, there will be a welcome briefing and then self-sufficiency starts.
There will be NO hot water provision in camp. If you want hot water, you provide it yourself.
Admin day will have a significant change and will be done via tents and not numbers as in the past, this will mean less wait time and more opportunity to sit in the shade.
Make sure you have original medical documents for admin day.
It’s important to have the minimum 2000 calories per day, but at admin, the team will not be very strict. Take personal responsibility. Have your food in bags for each day and then state the total calories in each bag.
There will be a medical emergency tent in the middle of bivouac. There will be more staff in the runner’s bivouac.
If there are any questions – email, contact on social media or call. The MDS team are available for you.
Wednesday 27th there will be an English and French broadcast.
There will be some new surprises, to be revealed in bivouac!
When I reached out for MDS stories, I knew I would find some remarkable people and MC is most definitely remarkable.
“I am MC, a 37-year old mum of two. I’m a terrible runner and not an athlete. I have never done a half-marathon until late 2023. But I am doing MDS in April.”
It was one of those introductions that had me asking, why?
“In 2015 my mum suffered a very sudden and horrific illness which left her paralysed from the neck down and reliant on a ventilator to breathe. My mum is locked in her body and has little outdoor space, so, I am doing MDS to raise funds for the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability”
“I am running to raise money to build a new and safe garden, where residents can sit independently and share time with their families. You don’t need me to tell you that being outdoors, surrounded by nature is so incredibly important to our mental health. This new garden will change lives (my mum’s, her fellow residents’ and all the families’) and take a huge pressure off the staff who so lovingly dedicate their lives to caring for others.”
IAN CORLESS 