Recent Running Adventures

December 2010 – Ice Marathon

The Antarctic 100k ultra race (62.1 miles) took place December 15th, 2010 at 80 Degrees South, just a few hundred miles from the South Pole at the foot of the Ellsworth Mountains. This race presented a truly formidable and genuine Antarctic challenge with underfoot conditions comprising snow and ice throughout, an average wind chill temperature of –20C, and the possibility of strong winds to contend with. Furthermore, the event takes place at an altitude of 3,000 feet. Undoubtedly, “the world’s coldest 100”, this ultramarathon challenge is reserved for only the toughest of endurance athletes.

I ran under a sun that never sets against the backdrop of hills, mountains and large expanses of ice. Quite a contrast to my MDS run in the Sahara desert in 2009! And contrary to popular belief, I didn’t have penguins or crowds cheering me along the route - no penguins live this far south and I had to rely upon myself to push onward in the hushed, indomitable surroundings.

Further details on this run and other adventures in the Antarctic can be found at: www.icemarathon.com.

April 2009 - Marathon des Sables

The Marathon des Sables (MDS) (Marathon of the Sands) is a six-day, 254 km (156 mile) ultramarathon, which is the equivalent to five and 1/2 regular marathons. The longest single stage is 84 km (52 miles) long. The event is held every year in the southern Moroccon desert. It is considered the toughest foot race on Earth.

Facts

The first event of the Marathon started in 1986.

Competitors must carry all personal belongings and food for the entire event in their backpack. Water and tents are supplied by the organizers.

During the 1994 race, Italian police officer Mauro Prosperi lost his way during a sand storm and wandered lost for more than 9 days, losing over 13 kg (30 lb) of body weight.

As of 2008, Lahcen Ahansal from Morocco has won 10 titles, and his brother Mohammed Ahansal has won 2 titles.

As of 2007, two competitors have died during the race.