Sahara Ultra-Marathon

We have the ultimate "ultra Marathon"; run in the Sahara Desert. Not one race, but several long races run over a week. Haven't seen it personally but been to the desert. I've also seen the marathon on the TV, and that's enough to amaze!

There's a stillness to the desert which is perhaps like no other. The quiet is loud - it creates ringing in your ears. Sunset brings orange sand reflections. At night, the vast starry sky is black and white with all the host of heaven present. Truly wonderful! I would like to return sometime. The silence and solitude to peaceful to the soul.


News: Morocco's Ahensal wins Marathon des Sables
April 6, 2008 -

Mohamed Ahensal won the 23rd Marathon des Sables on Saturday (April 5th), the Moroccan athlete's second victory after winning the same competition in 1998. He finished second in the previous seven editions, behind his brother Lahcen, who did not participate in 2008 event.

Ahensal won the 17.5-km last stage in 1:08.34 Saturday, consolidating his lead in the general rankings with 19:27.64. Jordan's Salameh Al Aqra came in second.

In the women's race, Moroccan Touda Didi grabbed the gold with 28:38.11. The marathon is a six-day 243-km long endurance race across the Moroccan Sahara.

- Maghrabia