Mayo brothers complete gruelling Sahara marathon challenge

TWO Mayo men have crossed the finish line today in a gruelling marathon challenge in the Sahara Desert.

Alan and Karl Heaney hit the hot sands this morning to cover the final 20 kilometres of the 250k Marathon de Sables.

This extraordinary race, featuring 11 days in Morocco, including nine in the desert, is spread over six stages, which can be completed either running or walking. It includes six marathons in five days and a charity 20km on the last stage.

The Swinford brothers are raising money for two charities: St. Catherine's Special School in Newcastle, Co. Wicklow, and Mindspace Mayo in Castlebar.

Alan is well known for his ultra running and cycling exploits, while Karl only took up running a year ago.

Aside from the hostile environment, the race involves self-sufficiency, with participants carrying all their gear and food, except for water and the tent.

MDS is known as the toughest road race in the world and only 60-70% of ultra runners actually finish it every year, with many falling foul to dehydration, heat stress, diarrhoea, stomach bugs, blistered feet, exhaustion - the list is endless.

To support Alan and Karl's fundraiser, donate here.

A small taste of the final leg this morning below: