Mayo man hits Sahara sands for ultra marathon challenge

A MAYO man is taking on an ultra marathon challenge across the Sahara desert.

Alan Heaney will be running not one but six marathons in five days, and he's hitting the sands today (Sunday).

The Marathon de Sables is a gruelling race where competitors complete 265km across the Sahara, unsupported.

This year's event takes place from April 23 to 30, and Alan is raising funds for Mind Space Mayo.

As a member of the Ultra Cyclists, Alan has had plenty experience over the years completing ultra events by bike. The group have cycled almost 10,000 kms over seven ultra cycling events, raising close to €275,000 for various charities.

Now he has swapped the bike for his running shoes for an endurance test like no other on earth.

Here's what the organisers say about the race: “Branded the toughest foot race on the planet, the terrain is harsh - it will shift your perspective. The heat is intense - it will demand your respect.

“You will carry your pack (all your food, medical, clothing and sleeping equipment), bed down in communal tents in the sand, sleeping in a makeshift bivouac village. You will share stories, support, laughter and make life-long friends.”

On his GoFundMe page, Alan explained: “I’ve ran lots of 5km, 10km, half marathons and nine full marathons over the years but nothing in recent times.

“At the start of Covid I started to run again regularly. Along with a good friend of mine, Peter Hynes, who carved trails through local woods and forests tracks, we were joined by Alan Dunne (twice weekly) and, together, we have run circa 3,500 kms over the last three years, through these woods, bog roads, dirt paths and forest trails, all right outside our front doors.

“My love for trail running and the great outdoor has grown since Covid and so too has my physical and mental fitness, something that has surprised me.

“The Marathon de Sables has been on my bucket list for many years and I now feel fitter (both mentally and physically) than ever, so the time has come to 'just do it'.

The event is self-financed with 100% of the money raised going directly to Mindspace Mayo, a free and confidential mental health support for young people.

To donate, visit https://gofund.me/7d96c078.