In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Mark “Mavis” Reilly to the MDS Podcast. Mark, a former professional footballer, shares his personal story and experiences taking on some of the most gruelling physical challenges to raise awareness for Rett Syndrome, an incurable genetic disorder affecting his daughter Dionne. From Ironman events to 100-mile runs, Mark’s […]
Red Bull’s Tom Evans Top Tips for the Marathon des Sables
In this episode of the MDS Podcast, we go back to 2017, the year that saw an unexpected third-place finish from a then-unknown British athlete, Tom Evans. Tom only entered the race after a bet with a friend, which resulted in the best result a European had ever achieved in the race’s history. Now competing […]
For Sara Pearce Getting to the Start Line has been a Challenge
After an extended break, we are back with a new episode. For some people, just getting to the start line is a challenge. Sara Pearce signed up for MDS 2020 and things didn’t quite go to plan. What’s important is how you deal with the setbacks. Sara handled them perfectly and is now raring to […]
Behind the Scenes at the Marathon des Sables with the “Desert Dad”
This episode is a little different, it’s a view from behind the scenes. If you ran in 2021 or 2022, you will have likely met photographer Jon Bromley. Or “Desert Dad”, as he was affectionately known by some. So what luxury awaits those non-runners working behind the scenes, four poster beds, 5-course meals, copious wine, […]
The Experiences of Roraigh Ainslie an MDS Veteran
Roraigh first completed the MDS in 1995. A lot has changed, and since then, he has completed it four more times. Including this year, 2022, when at the age of 62, he was Britain’s oldest finisher. No fancy running shoes or ultra-lightweight gear, just solid planning, preparation and a selective choice of kit has led […]
Ben Gallagher Veteran, Athlete, Explorer & MDS Finisher
On this weeks show we have Ben Gallagher another of our tent-mates from Marathon des Sables 2022. Ben is a Veteran, Athlete and Explorer. In 2019 whilst serving in the British Army, he was involved in an incident that has since changed his life. He was shot numerous times and received blast/fragmentation injuries to both […]
Terry Maddison Finishing 39th in the Marathon des Sables 2022
Not Terry’s first Ultra. Actually his second attempt at the Marathon des Sables, but a very respectable 39th place overall and 9th Brit. Find out how Terry managed this incredible achievement and see if you fancy placing in the top 50 in 2023!
Glen Watts Uses His “Why” To Finish The Marathon Des Sables!
This week Rob and I had a cracking time talking to tent mate Glen Watts about his MDS experience. Glen suffered severely with his feet during our journey through the Sahara. Having to use all his mental capacity and his “Why” to get through the pain. Whilst we have a great laugh in this episode, […]
Karen Alford from Half Marathon to MDS in under 12 months!
You don’t need to be an ultra runner or even have years of running experience to take part in the Marathon des Sables. With the right attitude, attention to detail and planning, you can complete the MDS whatever your background. This week we speak to Karen Alford, who did just this. With little running experience. […]
Lauren Gregory 1st British Female Marathon des Sables 2021
This week we are lucky to have Lauren Gregory on the show. Lauren not only completed the infamous 35th edition of the Marathon des Sables in 2021 she was also the first British Female. Whilst Lauren didn’t suffer from the stomach bug that rampaged through camp in 2021 her race was far from straightforward. She […]