Nick Hancock is running the Marathon des Sables (MdS) in 2010. He is competing in aid of the National Association for Colitis and Crohn's (NACC) and Help for Heroes Nick comes from a military family and his younger sister, Laura, has suffered badly with Crohn's for a number of years. Details of Nick's challenge can be found at: www.mds2010.com.
 
The MdS is often described as the toughest footrace on Earth. It covers 243km/151 miles run over 6 days (7 for some) - equivalent to five and a half regular marathons. In addition, competitors must carry everything they need for the duration of the race in a rucksack (food, clothes, medical kit, sleeping bag, stove, fuel, etc). Water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint.

During the race he will experience mid-day temperatures of up to 50°C (120°F), running on uneven rocky ground as well as 20% of the distance being on sand dunes. On the 4th day, runners set off across the desert to complete a 50 mile stage. Few people finish this before dark that evening and some will not come in till after dark the next night. This is followed the next day by a 42km (26.2 mile) marathon stage!!

The heat, distance and rubbing will trash Nick's feet. Mental stamina probably constitutes at least 50% of whether Nick will complete the race or not. Physical fitness is important but surviving mental stress is a key factor. If you would like to donate to Nick's charities, this can be done via the website www.mds2010.com.