Naposledy aktualizováno v březnu 21, 2023
The Marathon Des Sables is gearing up for its 37th edition, and the excitement is palpable. From April 21st to May 1st, 2023, the world’s toughest footrace will once again take place in the heart of the Moroccan Sahara, s 1,200 runners from 55 countries ready to take on the challenge.
The founder and director of the race, Patrick Bauer, introduced the event at a press conference and dedicated this year’s edition to Moulay Ahmed Alaoui, a former Minister of Information who played a crucial role in the race’s success.
The Marathon des Sables is a 250-kilometer, six-stage, seven-day self-sufficient journey that requires runners to carry everything they need on their backs. The participants will face extreme weather conditions, navigate treacherous terrain, and test their limits to the fullest. The competition is fierce among the top athletes, and the EL MORABITY brothers, Rachid and Mohamed, will be looking to add to their already impressive tally of victories. Rachid, in particular, will be gunning for his tenth victory, which will equal Lahcen AHANSAL’s record.
But the competition isn’t limited to just the Moroccan runners. The Elite France Terdav team includes five ultra-trail specialists who will be challenging the Moroccans. The women’s race is expected to be just as competitive, with Dutch runner Ragna DEBATS as the top favorite to win. Her competitors, including Maryline NAKACHE (FRA), Manuela SOCCOL (BEL), and Tomomi BITOH (JAP), will have a tough time hoping to dethrone her.
As always, the Marathon des Sables is not just a test of physical endurance but also an opportunity to promote sustainable development. The organizers have partnered with big Moroccan and international brands like Volkswagen, ONMT, SOFAC, Dari, TGCC, OCP, and Ain Atlas to ensure the event’s success. This year, the plastic bottles provided by Aïn Atlas will be recycled and reconditioned for the production of clothing and bags for the MDS solidarity center. This initiative aligns with the Marathon des Sables’ sustainable development policy, which aims to minimize the carbon footprint of the event.
The course for the race remains a secret for now, adding to the anticipation and excitement among the participants and spectators alike. The Marathon des Sables is a unique and challenging event that attracts runners from all over the world. It has earned its place as one of the most prestigious endurance races globally and continues to inspire and challenge athletes to push their limits. The 37th edition promises to be just as memorable and exciting as the previous editions, and the runners are ready to take on the challenge of a lifetime.
A Legendary Test of Endurance and Stamina
But this race is not for the faint of heart. The Marathon des Sables is a true test of endurance, with participants required to carry all of their own food and equipment for the duration of the race. And with gas stoves strictly forbidden, participants will need to rely on their own skills to make fire and cook their food.
The journey begins on April 21st, with participants arriving in Morocco before being transferred to the bivouac. Tady, they will undergo technical, administrative, and medical formalities while receiving meals provided by the race organizers. The following day, they will embark on the timed stages, lasting from April 23rd to 28th, with self-sufficiency in food. Each participant must bring their own food, selecting the type of food best suited to their personal needs, health, povětrnostní podmínky, and backpack weight.
And while the race may be grueling, participants can take comfort in the fact that they are not alone. The Marathon des Sables is known for its sense of camaraderie, with competitors supporting one another throughout the race. From sharing food and water to lending a helping hand when someone is struggling, the sense of community is what truly sets this race apart.
As the race draws to a close on May 1st, participants will return to their home countries, forever changed by their experience. For those brave enough to take on the challenge, the Marathon des Sables is an adventure unlike any other – a true test of strength, endurance, and the human spirit.
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