16 Nov 2017
What happens when you put our medical crew, operational staff, CEO, ex-patient and supporters in a tent in the desert to compete in the “toughest footrace on earth”? It’s only four months until we find out.
A team of London’s Air Ambulance employees and supporters are now preparing for April 2018, when they will tackle the epic 250km Marathon des Sables (MdS). Lasting six days, this race was described by Sir Ranulph Fiennes as the hardest thing he has ever done.
This gruelling multi-stage adventure will take place across formidable landscapes in one of the world’s most inhospitable climates — the Sahara desert. Each participant will be aiming to complete six back to back marathons over six days carrying everything they need to survive, apart from water and a tent to sleep in at night. At least 10% of entrants fail to finish.
When the London’s Air Ambulance MdS team asked their families what they thought about their involvement in the race, they all agreed it was crazy. But at the same time, everyone who knows our team is extremely proud of their commitment. The entire charity will be getting behind this event, whether they’re taking part themselves or sending support from back home.
Bets are still open as to who will finish first, but it is clear from talking to the team that just by crossing the finish line each one of them will feel like a winner. They all agree having the service at the forefront of their minds will be the greatest motivation to keep going and it will be a comfort to know they aren’t in it alone.
Ultimately, the team hopes this challenge will help raise large amounts of money for our charity. You can follow their progress on their JustGiving page and on Twitter.