Only 1000 miles to go…

Huw Williams, Business Development Manager at CCICM, is now just 2 months away from taking part in the Marathon des Sables – a gruelling self-supported 6 marathons (156 miles) over 6 consecutive days in the Sahara desert.

Huw’s training started in earnest last year.  In September 2016, he completed the Ultra Tour of Snowdonia – a 58 mile circular ultramarathon through some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK.

Since then he’s completed an ultramarathon round Bardsey Island in Gwynedd (30 Miles) and a 52 mile run on a treadmill in the centre of his home town of Pwllheli as well as running the brutal Snowdon Marathon in full desert kit.

What’s next?

“I’m stepping up my endurance training over the next couple of months” he explained.  I’m currently running an average of about 60 – 70 miles per week along with weight training and yoga. This back to back training runs over the weekend.  The bag that I run with weighs 7kg (the equivalent of two small suitcases) which is the weight of the equipment I’ll have to carry in the Sahara.

He added “I’m trying to “theme” my training to keep things interesting.  I’m running a marathon round my local rugby pitch before each of the Welsh Six Nations games – 5 marathons – 130 miles in total.  Between now and the end of the Marathon des Sables, I’ll run about 1000 miles.”

Weather and terrain

Temperatures in the Sahara vary from sub-zero at night to up to 50°C during the day.  Add huge, uneven sand dunes, sand storms and rocky outcrops to this and it’s not difficult to imagine just how tough this challenge is.

“People ask if I’m brave, crazy or both to take on this challenge” said Huw.  “My answer?  The Marathon des Sables has been described as the toughest race on earth, and luckily I’ve been described as the craziest man on earth!”

Huw is hoping to raise £8000 for Scope by the end of the challenge.  For more information, or to donate, please visit his JustGiving page or email him for more information.