Countdown to MDS The Legendary 2025 – Four

Posted on March 20, 2025 by talkultra

It is two weeks to go, finally the big target is in your grasp, MDS The Legendary 2025 is waiting! To all intents and purposes, your training is now done. You will not get fitter in these last 14-days, only more tired, more stressed and potentially injured. Accept that the work is done, other than some easy runs or walks to keep moving and some planned heat acclimation, use the extra time that would have been used for training as planning time.

DON’T PANIC!

If you have got this far, you are in a great place.

When you break the race down, here are my TOP 20 TIPS of what to focus on for Marathon des Sable – The Legendary.

MEDICAL

Make sure you have all the medical requirements fulfilled and an up to date ECG as specified in MDS rules and regulations. There can be no compromise here. The MDS medical time, quite correctly, are adamant that all protocols must be adhered to. This is for your safety.

The organization provide a medical certificate which you must download and you must have a resting electrocardiogram (ECG) report plus graph, dated less than 30 days before the start of the race.

The original documents are to be presented during the administrative, technical and medical checks on the admin day in bivouac. Failure to present these documents will incur penalties (see ART.27 et 28).

Note:

The signature and the stamp of the doctor must be applied on them.
Only the original documents, dated and signed, will be accepted (photocopy is not valid).

TRAINING

Well, we are all individuals, we all have different abilities, we all have different goals, we all have different free time and the list could go on. Importantly, keep the balance of training days the same. If you typically run 5-days a week, maintain those 5-days and reduce the volume/ intensity.

The Taper:

Week 2: 40km or 4.8 hours
Week 1: 20km or 2.4 hours (race week)

Your body needs to keep alert and active. So make sure you add some stimulus in this taper period, short periods of faster running and/ or hill work are ideal. However, do all this with the priority not to get injured. Now is not the time to get a niggle, a sprain or a problem.

ACCLIMATE

In the final two weeks of taper you need to hone in on acclimation to heat and prepare the body.

Read HERE on the best protocols.

Don’t leave this to the last minute, plan ahead, especially if using a heat chamber. Heat chambers are limited and obviously, time slots are limited.

If you do not have access to a heat chamber think of other options: sauna, hot baths, bikram yoga, adding layers when running, or if you are lucky with time, arrive in Morocco early and taper in a real situation.

EQUIPMENT

You will have been mulling over equipment for months and you may well have tweaked and changed your choices. Now, with 2-weeks to go, this is the time to make sure you have everything you need and also understand what it all weighs.

Clothes must be comfortable and not rub.
Shoes fit perfectly, give no hot spots and are suitable for the desert environment and have gaiters.
Socks work for you.
Sleeping bag is light and warm.
Sleeping mat
Food
Mandatory kit

READ THE ESSENTIAL MDS EQUIPMENT LIST 2025 and Countdown to MDS The Legendary 2025 – Three

Use LIGHTERPACK to keep a track of everything.

FOOD

You need a minimum of 2000 calories per day. Lay food out for each day and have a spreadsheet that itemises everything and shows the weight and calories.

Where possible, re-package food in smaller and lighter packaging. Particularly important with dehydrated meals. Read HERE

TRAVEL

Runner’s are required to be at Ouarzazate Airport on the morning of Friday April 4th. Travel is for you to plan, flights are no longer provided by the MDS organisation, however, they do offer a free transfer service from Marrakech.

To get to Morocco and Ouarzazate, you can arrive at various airports:

Ouarzazate airport – Fly to Ouarzazate before the race and spend one or more nights in a hotel (at your own expense), then come to one of the meeting points on the morning of April 4. You must arrive no later than April 3.
Marrakech airport – Shuttles will be organized on the morning of April 2 and 3, 2025, between Marrakech and Ouarzazate (5-hour journey).

Travel in your run clothing including your run shoes with the gaiters. Yes, you are going to look somewhat ‘special’ at the airport but trust me, luggage goes missing and you do not want to be the person standing in the Sahara watching your dream slip away because of lost luggage.

Take your run pack with all contents for the race as carry-on. You can take pretty much take everything: food, sleeping bag, essentials etc. The only items you cannot take are run poles and knife-

Take spare items in your hold/ ckeckin luggage. MDS varies considerably in temperature, we get hot and cold years. Never assume it will be hot. You have the opportunity in bivouac to fine tune equipment before admin.

Purchase food and drinks at the airport to take on the plane. Also consider when you land in Morocco, you will have an approximate 6-hour bus journey to bivouac 1, take food and drink with you for this trip. However, MDS do ptovide you with a packed lunch.

Have cash with you, depending on which airline you use, card payments are not always possible, also, in Morocco, cash is king.

ARRIVAL

Runner’s are required to be at Ouarzazate Airport on the morning of Friday April 4th see above.

Runners will then fill buses, road books will be given and then you transfer to the desert. Expect 6-hours.

At bivouac you will find your tent and settle in.

REMEMBER food is now NOT provided and you therefore need to feed yourself on arrival day and admin day. There are no restrictions on weight or calories here, so, take as much as you want and plenty of variety, this includes drinks. Only water will be in camp.

As mentioned above, until admin, you have your luggage with you, so, you can have more layers, a more comfortable inflatable bed and some luxuries – consider what will make these days more pleasurable and comfortable. Importantly, you can fine tune your race pack with more or less layers based on the weather forecast and conditions.

ADMIN DAY

On admin day, prepare all your kit and make sure you have everything prepared and ready. Also make sure you have all mandatory and essential kit. Once you have passed through admin, your luggage is taken away and you will not see it again until after the race when you return to Ouarzazate.

Race self-sufficiency actually only starts the following day with stage 1.

Admin used to be a long and lengthy process, however, the system changed in 2024 and it was fast and seamless. Make sure you have a drink and snacks while waiting. A top tip is carry an umbrella to protect you in case of a very hot day.

RACE

The race will be 6-stages over 7-days. The distance will be 250km’s and the long day will be stage 4. There will be no Djebel El Otfal and Merzouga Dunes are back. Cyril Gauthier described the route as very beautiful and very tough. There will be a great deal of soft sand. Listen to a podcast where this is all discussed Countdown to MDS The Legendary 2025 – Two

“…and for sure it will be tough, I am not going to tell you that it will be easy! The distance will be 250km’s, I am little unhappy because I cannot put the long stage in the third position, I loved this last year, but according to our plan, we need to move it to the fourth stage. It will be tough, very tough and really beautiful. We have some amazing places planned, 80% is new tracks. You will see places never seen before in any MDS. There will be no El Otfal, there will be lots of sand and yes, Merzouga will return.” – Cyril Gauthier

Ease in to the race. Respect the challenge ahead. A slower and calmer pace on stage 1 and 2 will be rewarded on stage 3 and especially on stage 4, the long day. Remember after the long day you have a rest day. Stage 5 will almost certainly be a marathon, stage 6 a half marathon, plan for this physically, mentally and make sure you eat well to have the energy.

AFTER THE RACE

You will cross the finish line and be given a medal.

You will then be requested to board coaches that will be waiting for you. As each bus fills, it will depart for Ouarzazate, expect a 6-7 hour journey. A packed lunch will be provided.

On arrival in Ouarzazate, you will go to your hotel, your luggage will be waiting and then you have free time, dinner will be at your hotel.

The following day is a free day. In the evening it will be the awards ceremony.

Departure day, please make sure you check details for transfers to Marrakech if that is applicable for you.

Interested in another MDS event in 2025?

A full calendar of dates and destinations are available HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

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

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

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

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

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

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS Jordan 2024 – Stage 2

Posted on November 5, 2024 by talkultra

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Notably, Salameh Alaqra chose the 40km option today after picking up a slight injury on stage 1.

The true star of stage 2 is the magical and unique landscape of Wadi Rum. It’s a very special place.

Tomorrow, a rest day. An opportunity to relax and recover before the final stage 3.

Marathon des Sables website 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.

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

MDS Jordan 2024 – Stage 1

Posted on November 4, 2024 by talkultra

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.

The runner’s are surrounded by ampitheatres of rock, canyons, gorges and the glow of intense light making Wadi Rum a very special place.

Stage 1 started with an early wake up and a 4am depart from the race hotel, ahead, a 4-hour journey to the desert.

Starting a little after 0930, 550 runner’s were released for the adventure of a lifetime, ahead 27.4km and 980m+.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Tomorrow, stage 2, is the long day where participants can choose 20km, 40km or 60km.

Marathon des Sables website HERE

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

Gaiters for a Desert Race

Posted on August 6, 2024 by talkultra

Gaiters for a desert race are an essential item. Quite simply, sand and feet are NOT friends. So, you need to do everything you possibly can to keep sand out of your shoes and keep your feet healthy and trouble free.

In 2024, Raidlight, the legendary French brand released the first mass produced desert specific shoe supplied with velcro sewn on and gaiter provided. I have tested them extensively and they are a great option if you want a one-stop and no hassle solution, my review is HERE – Raidlight Ultra Desert 4 Protect Shoe Review

However, many of you (most of you) will be using your favourite run shoe and will need velcro sewn to your shoe. Let’s get one thing clear, do not ask, “What shoe shall I use?” We are all individuals with different body weights, gaits, needs and speed. Shoes are very specific to the person. Read an article HERE How to Find Your Running Shoe Size and Fit.

Every year, the same question gets asked, “Where can I get my gaiters attached to my run shoes?”

Main gaiters brands:

WAA HERE
Raidlight HERE
MyRaceKit HERE

So here is a list of current resources, this list will be added to as more names/ contacts become available.

Kevin Bradley is the man. He has been sewing gaiters on shoes for years. He has probably done 1000’s. Very experienced and he knows his stuff. Alex Shoe Repair, 103c Lavender Hill, London, SW11 – Telephone +44 207 2223 4931

Strand Cobblers, 9 Imperial Way, Exmouth, Devon, EX8 1BY.

FRANCE

Raidlight have extended its desert racing expertise by now offering the installation of desert gaiters. More information via the website HERE

USA

Jay Batchen was the US agent for many years and his strong recommendation is with Chuva Shoe Repair in NYC (212-924-7199)

Other USA participants have also recommended, Kosta Koutsimanis Norwalk Shoe Repair, Connecticut.

Drago Shoe Repair (Pinel), 2 Charlton St, New York, NY 10014, (6th and Prince)

NETHERLANDS

Schoenmakerij P Heubel, Rechstraat 45, 6221 EG, Maastricht, Nederland

Also, Trailrunstore.com is recommended in Zoetermeer.

BELGIUM

Perfecta Kortrijksepoortstraat in Ghent.

Runners’ Lab three stores: Zaventem, Belgium · +32 2 310 90 74 / Zwijndrecht, Belgium · +32 3 775 22 13 and Ghent, Belgium · +32 9 229 19 55

READ MDS The Ultimate Guide – 2024 Edition HERE

Follow on:

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

Image sales –www.iancorless.photoshelter.com

Marathon des Sables – The Legendary : News Seven – RACE ROUTE REVEALED

Posted on April 12, 2024 by talkultra

THE 2024 MDS THE LEGENDARY ROUTE

The 2024 and 38^th 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 15^th.

Runner’s will arrive in Morocco on April 12^th for a transfer to the desert.

Saturday 13^th 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

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 10^th 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 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 3^rd 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

The MDS is always a place for stories, challenges, inspiration and adventure and the 38^th edition will be no different. Often, these stories unfold as the race happens.

Mr MDS, Christian Ginter is back for his 36^th edition, yes, his 36^th! Rory Coleman from the UK return for his 16^th 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 38^th 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

You can also follow ‘live’ at owaka.live

Follow on:

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

Image sales –www.iancorless.photoshelter.com

Marathon des Sables – The Legendary : Podcast Four with Ferdinand Charriau

Posted on March 26, 2024 by talkultra

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.

Listen Below

Listen to the podcast on Apple HERE

Spotify HERE

Key discussion points and notes:
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!

Follow on:

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

Image sales –www.iancorless.photoshelter.com

Marathon des Sables – The Legendary : NEWS TWO – Feb 2024

Posted on February 12, 2024 by talkultra

You arrive in Morocco, pass through passport control, wait for your luggage, leave the airport arrivals hall and find a seat on a coach.

The MDS journey is now in full swing.

Waiting in anticipation, the Road Book (the bible) for the next edition of the race is provided and immediately pages turn, running through the mind of each participant:

“How long is the long day?”

Well, the wait is over, I can tell you. For 2024, the long day will be 85.3 km’s.

The MARATHON DES SABLES – The Legendary is breaking silence and today, we announce the daily stage distances for the 2024 edition.

Stage 1 : 31.1 km
Stage 2 : 40.8 km
Stage 3 : 85.3 km (over 2 days)
Stage 4 : 43.1 km
Stage 5 : 31.4 km
Stage 6 : 21.1 km

Total 252.8 km

Marathon des Sables typically takes place in this key area.

Taking place in the southern Moroccan Sahara since 1986; an extraordinary adventure will take place covering 252 km’s, the longest edition in the race history. Lasting 11-days with 9-days in the desert, divided into 6 stages over 7-days, a magical crossing of the Sahara walking or running.

The exact route, with maps, will once again be covered in detail in the road book, which as per usual, will be provided in Morocco whilst on the way to the bivouac one.

This is the first time that the daily distances have been disclosed before arrival in Morocco. Does this change anything? No, not really. I guess there is a reassurance knowing that the long day is not 90+ km’s.

However, with the 2024 edition being 252 km’s and over 6 timed stages, it was my prediction that this race would be a tougher challenge in contrast to those that have gone before. Therefore, to ease minds, the distances have been announced.

Previously, the long day would come on stage 4 (over 2 days) and it would be followed by the marathon stage. It was common thought, “Get the long day done and it’s just a marathon to go!” At the finish of the marathon, the medal would be received; job done.

Now, with the long day coming on stage 3, you still have 3-stages to run totaling 95.6 km’s. This will require a completely different mental and physical approach.

So, plan accordingly and be prepared.

You may wish to read my previous post HERE that provides some important information in regard to the 2024 race.

It is 8 weeks to go to one of the greatest experiences of your life. Make this time count!

ORGANIZATION OF THE WEEK

Here is how a typical week at the MARATHON DES SABLES is organized

Day 1: Arrival in Morocco, transfer by bus in the desert, installation and night at the bivouac.
Day 2: Day of technical, administrative and medical checks, night at the bivouac.
Day 3:First stage, night at the bivouac.
Day 4:Second stage, night at the bivouac.
Days 5 & 6:Third stage – “the long one” – which lasts 2 days. Nights at the bivouac.
Day 7: Fourth stage, night at the bivouac.
Day 8: Fifth stage, night at the bivouac.
Day 9: Sixth stage, award ceremony.Transfer by bus to Ouarzazate, night at the hotel with half board accommodation.
Day 10: Free day in Ouarzazate, night at the hotel with half board accommodation.
Day 11: End of the adventure, transfer back to the airport.