Races

Marathon Des Sables: The Toughest Footrace in the World?

This article is the first in a series based on the Marathon des Sables, a gruelling ultra-distance challenge, often described as the toughest footrace in the world.

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Check out the other articles here: Part 2: Insights from Samir Mouffok's MDS preparation, Part 3: Mandatory Kit and Equipment and Part 4: Throughout the stages with Samir Mouffok

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What is the Marathon de Sables?

The Marathon des Sables is an epic adventure across the Sahara Desert in Morocco. Over a period of six consecutive days, runners will brave the arid climate of the desert and cover some 250 kilometres of sand dunes and rocky terrain. What makes this marathon so special is that participants have to carry all their equipment on their backs, with the exception of water and tents. As well as its physical challenge, the Marathon des Sables tests the mental resilience of the participants, who are faced with new obstacles every day. This demanding event inspires a sense of triumph and solidarity among the participants, who come from the four corners of the globe to push their limits in one of the world's most demanding and prestigious races.

The exact route may vary from year to year, but it generally involves crossing different types of terrain, including sand dunes, rocky paths, and desert plains.

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Photo credit: A.Deroeux

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What are the entry requirements for the Marathon de Sables?

As for the entry criteria for the Marathon des Sables, participants must meet certain eligibility requirements and be prepared to meet the physical and mental demands of the race.

Here is a list of the most important criteria:

Age requirements

Participants must generally be over 18 to take part in the Marathon des Sables.

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Medical certificate

Participants must generally provide a medical certificate issued by a qualified doctor, confirming their good health and fitness to undertake such a demanding endurance event.

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Experience 

Although previous experience in ultramarathons or other endurance events is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended. Participants should have solid running experience and be prepared for the challenges of running in extreme desert conditions. 

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Photo credit: A.Deroeux

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Equipment

Participants must possess and be proficient in the use of mandatory equipment, which typically includes items such as a backpack, sleeping bag, compass, signal mirror and other survival gear. 

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Registration and fees

Participants must register for the event during the specified registration period and pay the associated registration fee. In addition to the registration fee, participants are responsible for covering their own travel costs to Morocco, as well as any additional costs associated with accommodation, meals and equipment.

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In order to verify that each participant possesses the necessary equipment, the organisers conduct mandatory technical and equipment checks to ensure that all participants have the required gear and are adequately prepared for the challenges of the race. These checks are crucial for the safety and well-being of the participants during the event. Technical checks generally take place shortly before the start of the race.

During these checks, participants must present their mandatory equipment for inspection. This includes items such as backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, compasses, signalling mirrors, whistles, headlamps, and other essential gear. Organisers may also verify that participants have the necessary amount of food and water for each stage of the race. They also check that participants have the necessary amount of food and water for each stage of the race.

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Photo credit: A.Deroeux

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This ultra-marathon poses a challenge in terms of endurance, mental strength, and survival skills, making it a must-do race for many runners.

This year, the SportsShoes team is following French athlete Samir Mouffok who has decided to embark on this adventure. We have followed Samir Mouffok during his preparation, dedicated training which he has maintained during Ramadan.

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Click here to stay updated on Samir Mouffok's journey and receive further insights into his training techniques, follow him on Instagram.

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SportsShoes is committed to organising the most exciting and unique races, whether it's on the track, road or trail. Keen to find out more? Then check out our Races category for more information about events, latest news and results. Because it's no fun standing still.