The Marathon des Sables: Ultra Endurance Running in the Heat of the Sahara

by Mark Hines

The Marathon des Sables is a legendary ultra-endurance race in the heart of the Moroccan Sahara. Hundreds of competitors face six days of racing, carrying all their survival equipment and food, over the desert terrain and under a burning sun. Many do not complete the race, as the effects of weather, terrain, sore feet and injury combine to push each racer to their limit.

For Dr Mark Hines, this was his first encounter with ultra-endurance adventure racing. As an expert in what the body needs to meet the challenges of an event such as this, and acutely aware of the likelihood of failure in such a relentlessly hot environment, Hines felt the pressure to perform despite no ultra-running pedigree to rely upon. This book details his first steps into ultra-endurance running in the world’s most extreme environments, as his eyes were opened to this incredible sport, complete with camaraderie, heartbreak and triumph.

The Marathon des Sables is both a gripping story of running and passion, and a rare insight into one of the world’s most remarkable footraces.

300 pages, Paperback

First published September 30, 2010

Reviews

[Paul J · Rating 3 out of 5]

A blow-by-blow account of the author's experience running the Marathon des Sables, enjoyable for any runner or athlete wanting a glimpse of the experience of racing such a challenging event. The tone is laid back and humorous which makes it quite readable; rather than sterile recollections of running through endless miles of sand dunes, it focuses a lot on the authors connection with friends made during the event and what it means for him to compete in and complete such an event.

While it would be good reading for anyone considering running the race (and actually runs through sections about equipment, training and nutrition), I wouldn't consider it a comprehensive guide as it feels more like a memoir than a manual. The only section that felt slightly out of place was the chapter on the heart and cardiovascular health, which - although interesting - was difficult to digest for a layman as it was written in a very 'academic study' style.

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

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