The Marathon des Sables (MDS) has long held a fascination for distance runners. On Tuesday 29 November, our Edinburgh store hosted a training and inspiration evening on the magic of the MDS.
Dave Scott, from Sandbaggers the Glasgow based expedition and event company, brought together a mixture of experienced and novice veterans of the MDS and other similar events to enlighten and inspire a very enthusiastic audience.
A short DVD of the 2011 event was played and although we had a slight problem with sound quality (apologies to those present) the visual images gave a great impression of what the event is about: a week in the desert covering 151 miles (243km) while carrying all of your gear, overnight camps and breathtaking desert scenery.
Martin Myers had attended a similar talk 12 months ago, prior to him running the MDS for the first time in 2011. He gave a very detailed account of his experiences, specifically in relation to logistics with very practical examples of what to do and not do if you’re running the event for the first time, especially in relation to the extreme heat which is encountered in this race.
Donny Campbell, a very experienced multi-day ultra runner, drew on his own experience of training for ultras to describe in detail how he prepares physically, mentally and emotionally for these events. He emphasised the need for positive thinking which is paramount in ultra distance races.
Dave Scott drew on his knowledge gained from years of expedition leading and kit research to talk about the key equipment needed for the MDS. Of course it included his legendary sand gaiters, which he admitted are not pretty but incredible effective. Advice on the right choice of backpack, his favourite is the OMM Classic Mountain Marathon 32 L, despite the French always extolling the virtues of the Raidlight packs.
Andrew Murray, whose many ultra accomplishments include running from Scotland to the Sahara, which he has documented and is available in his book Running beyond Limits, was the final speaker. Andrew is a qualified GP, and has worked as an event doctor at numerous ultra events including the MDS and the Gobi Challenge. He drew on his experience to give a short and entertaining talk on both medical aspects of the event to be aware of, and also the important nutritional aspects. A Prize draw for a Run and become voucher was won by Ally Macleod and a pair of Sandbaggers desert gaiters was won by Yvonne Abson.
Adrian Tarit Stott