Marathon des sables
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The Marathon des sables (MDS) (Marathon of the sands) is a 7 day, 240 km (149 mi) ultramarathon, which is an equivalent to 5 1/2 regular marathons. The longest single stage is 82 km (51 mi) long.
The event is held every year in the southern Moroccan desert. It is considered the toughest foot race on Earth. The first event of the Marathon started in 1986.
[edit] Facts
- Competitors must carry all personal belongings and food for the entire event in their rucksack. 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 18 kg (40 lb) of body weight.
- The cost of participation is almost $3000.
- As of 2006, Lahcen Ahansal from Morocco has won 9 titles.
