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So what is the MARATHON DES
SABLES? The Marathon des Sables is said to be the ‘toughest foot race’ in the world. It runs approximately 230 Km (144 miles) through Southern Morocco, crossing the Sahara desert. It takes place in March or April when temperatures can range between 100 and 40 degrees F in a single day, the lower temperatures are either at night or the result of the sun being obliterated by major dust storms. The challenge is not to win the ‘race’ but to endure and complete the natural challenges presented by being self sufficient in one of the most inhospitable environments on earth. If you want to know about the gory details go to http://www.saharamarathon.co.uk/
So why do it? Basically: because it is there and I CAN! complete this race and I will finish this race, maybe not first or even second … but I will finish … hopefully before the camels. (you might need to look that one up.) About two years ago I watched a television programme about the Marathon of the Sands and thought, “Oh my God! What will people do.” After a couple of days I found myself wondering if the Marathon des Sables needed the “Rocking Chair Test”. Could I sit in my rocking chair, in my dotage and tell my grandchildren “I did that!” and would they reply “YOU DID WHAT!” A few days later I was calling The Best of Morocco and asking for my application form.
This is the all important question. I have decided to brave the desert sands, with all it’s crawly beasties and other such pleasantries to raise funds for Friends of Oncology and Radio Therapy, (FORT) based at Portsmouth NHS Trust. These sterling friends provide support to those whose lives have been touched by cancer. Those could include the elderly who just need a chat and a cup of tea, those stricken in their prime who may need a little more personal time with a massage to children who need to be ‘spoilt’ for a time, or any combination of these needs. Cancer has no regard for class, creed or even age, it can incapacitate a loved one from any family. So the good people at FORT try to make a little bit of a difference to those going through a harrowing time. Now we get to the bit I want from you, to support them, to help them make that difference. Their address is: FORT Cancer Charity, Oncology Department, St Mary’s Hospital, Portsmouth, PO3 6AD: Tel: 023 9279 6515 or visit www.fort-cancer.org.uk
Alternatively if you are local to the area I am arranging a few fundraising events in the next year, why not support by coming along and have a good night out as well as helping raise funds.
So if you fancy a good evening out, and of course are local, send me an email and I will contact you with more details.
Please give generously.
Paul Pickford
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So
what do I want from you?
