In this episode, we're excited to welcome Mark "Mavis" Reilly to the MDS Podcast. Mark, a former professional footballer, shares his personal story and experiences taking on some of the most gruelling physical challenges to raise awareness for Rett Syndrome, an incurable genetic disorder affecting his daughter Dionne. 

From Ironman events to 100-mile runs, Mark's determination and resilience shine through as he discusses his participation in the epic Marathon des Sables (MDS). In October 2021, the 35th MDS saw the highest temperatures on record, with over 50 degrees Celsius and a stomach bug, making it the toughest MDS in history.

Mark recounts how he persevered, drawing on themes of positivity, hope, and resilience.

Mark's upcoming book, “The Lives of Reilly,” co-authored by David McCarthy and Dickson Telfer, with a foreword by Ally McCoist, delves deeper into his inspiring journey. All profits from the book will be donated to the charity Reverse Rett, further demonstrating Reilly's commitment to raising awareness and supporting his daughter and others with the disorder.

Don't miss this heartwarming and motivational episode with Mark "Mavis" Reilly, and stay tuned for updates on his book launches in Kilmarnock and Motherwell. Let's celebrate the power of positivity, resilience, and hope together.

Due for release on the 4th of May, follow Mark and Nameless Town Publishing on Twitter: 

https://twitter.com/NamelessTownLit

https://twitter.com/ReillyMavis1

 

In this episode of the MDS Podcast, we go back to 2017, the year that saw an unexpected third-place finish from a then-unknown British athlete, Tom Evans.

Tom only entered the race after a bet with a friend, which resulted in the best result a European had ever achieved in the race's history. Now competing under the Red Bull banner, and has since won the 101km CCC race at the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB). Along with course records – at the Coastal Challenge Costa Rica, the South Downs Way 50 and New Zealand's Ultra Trail World Tour Tarawera.

Tom gives us his insight into racing the Marathon des Sables with some absolute nuggets for speed daemons and walkers alike.

https://www.redbull.com/gb-en/athlete/tom-evans

After an extended break, we are back with a new episode.

For some people, just getting to the start line is a challenge. Sara Pearce signed up for MDS 2020 and things didn't quite go to plan. What's important is how you deal with the setbacks.

Sara handled them perfectly and is now raring to go in 2023. Listen in to find out more about Sara's MDS journey.

This episode is a little different, it’s a view from behind the scenes. If you ran in 2021 or 2022, you will have likely met photographer Jon Bromley. Or “Desert Dad”, as he was affectionately known by some.

So what luxury awaits those non-runners working behind the scenes, four poster beds, 5-course meals, copious wine, and fun helicopter rides?

Listen in to find out. You can find out more about Jon’s work, and his MDS photography offers at: https://www.jonbromley.co.uk/

Roraigh first completed the MDS in 1995. A lot has changed, and since then, he has completed it four more times. Including this year, 2022, when at the age of 62, he was Britain’s oldest finisher.

No fancy running shoes or ultra-lightweight gear, just solid planning, preparation and a selective choice of kit has led Roraigh to succeed at this event multiple times.

A lot for everyone to learn from this episode.

On this weeks show we have Ben Gallagher another of our tent-mates from Marathon des Sables 2022.

Ben is a Veteran, Athlete and Explorer. In 2019 whilst serving in the British Army, he was involved in an incident that has since changed his life. He was shot numerous times and received blast/fragmentation injuries to both arms and his upper torso. Without a doubt his body armour saved his life.

Resilience, optimism and determination are qualities that highlight Ben’s consistent drive to succeed.

Ben completed the 36th Marathon des Sables 2022 in 38hrs 48mins 54secs with an average moving speed of 5.95km/h, he ranked 271 out of 1023 registered competitors.

Listen to this episode to learn how he approached the MDS.

Find out more about Ben: https://bengallaghergbr.weebly.com/

Not Terry's first Ultra. Actually his second attempt at the Marathon des Sables, but a very respectable 39th place overall and 9th Brit. Find out how Terry managed this incredible achievement and see if you fancy placing in the top 50 in 2023!

This week Rob and I had a cracking time talking to tent mate Glen Watts about his MDS experience.

Glen suffered severely with his feet during our journey through the Sahara. Having to use all his mental capacity and his "Why" to get through the pain.

Whilst we have a great laugh in this episode, there are some serious takeaways for every future competitor.

We hope you enjoy listening to this as much as we enjoyed recording it.

Glen's Fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/glen-watts2

You don't need to be an ultra runner or even have years of running experience to take part in the Marathon des Sables. With the right attitude, attention to detail and planning, you can complete the MDS whatever your background. This week we speak to Karen Alford, who did just this. With little running experience. No more than a half marathon under her belt. Karen completed the 2022 Marathon des Sables. Listen in to find out how she did it. Some links are mentioned in the podcast. The Hardmoors 110: https://www.hardmoors110.org.uk/hardmoors-110/ Let's Run shop in Stokesley, a great running shop which also has organised group runs and races throughout the year. https://lets-run.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/letsrunNE/

This week we are lucky to have Lauren Gregory on the show. Lauren not only completed the infamous 35th edition of the Marathon des Sables in 2021 she was also the first British Female. Whilst Lauren didn’t suffer from the stomach bug that rampaged through camp in 2021 her race was far from starightforward. She definitely had her own problems to solve, and some of the choices she made could have been a race ender if she’d gotten them wrong. This is a great episode with lessons for runners of all abilities. Enjoy the show. Lauren is also a personal trainer and you can find out more about what she does on her website. Also the charity she ran for (raised £12k) and she has stayed on as part of their MDS coaching team and also a Trustee - Hope for Children.