Gym owner Brian Foley is set to run the 'Marathon des Sables' next week across 250 kilometres of desert and “sweltering heat”.
Mr Foley said he will be racing in 50-degree heat during the day, with highest temperatures expected to be 52 degrees around midday. Participants have to stay in front of a herd of camels in order to remain in the race – Mr Foley said he is hoping the camels are moving slowly over the six days.He said: “I guess the biggest concerns are obviously dehydration and heatstroke, and then obviously, your feet running around in sand.”Those running the marathon also must carry a backpack with all their food. Mr Foley said he is organising the bag “meticulously, gram by gram”.
A 10 kilogram bag is equivalent to a bale of briquettes – Mr Foley said he should have contacted Bord na Móna for “sponsorship”.Mr Foley said part of the “allure” of the marathon is the opportunity to be alone with your thoughts in physical exercise.
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