Occupation: Geography teacher at GEMS Cambridge International, Abu Dhabi
Nationality: British
Age: 28
Iain says he is pretty much new to the world of running. He disliked it at first, but moving to the UAE last September has made him reconsider. And this decision took him right at the doorstep of the toughest footrace on Earth – the Marathon des Sables. We asked about his decision to run the MDS 2015 from April 3rd to13th and how he finds the running community.
When did you first hear about the Marathon des Sables?
A friend of mine decided we needed a new challenge. We had both completed long distance walks before, mostly in Europe. These events include the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen (40km in four days) and the Belgian Dodentocht (100km in 24hrs). Having completed these events several times and having not had a challenge for a while, my friend took a day off from work to sign us up for the MDS. I don’t think either us, especially me, expected we would get a place. A few years on, here we are.
Could you tell us more about the cause you chose?
I am running for the Bluebell Wood children’s hospice in the United Kingdom. I used to live in an area where their work touched the lives of many. Bluebell Wood helps young people and their families who have a shortened life expectancy. The work they do is invaluable to families and friends at a very difficult and precious time.
How are you preparing for the MDS?
I have been following an intensive running and gym schedule since September. I completed my first half marathon in Dubai in November/December, and my first marathon in Dubai on 23rd January. I now have all the appropriate kit I need. The MDS is a self-sufficient race meaning I will carry all my food and will be limited to 10L of water per day. I spend my evenings running with my desert pack and wearing my sand gaiters. I often get funny looks until I reach those sandy areas. I think it looks weird but equally cool.
What do you love most about running?
I love the sense of accomplishment. Sometimes it is difficult to get into my natural running rhythm. Of course, daily life doesn’t stop and after a hectic day at work, going for a long run is often the last thing I want to do especially when I’m tired. When I break into my natural cycle however, I love the feeling of being free. I become removed from my normal life and the world that goes on around us. I feel small and consider the bigger picture of life. I see myself as though I am looking down on myself – as if from a satellite or on a map. I think about where I am on Earth and see myself as a small dot running on the surface. Sounds strange – but I guess that’s what happens when you force yourself not to think about the daily grind.
Are there any other sports you are involved with?
I am a traditional outdoor pursuit person. I enjoy hill walking, mountains, mountain biking, road cycling, climbing, abseiling and canoeing and kayaking. I used to work in the outdoor pursuits industry in the UK and a lot of my time was spent doing the above.
What’s next for Iain? Are there any other events that you are preparing for?
I am preparing for a week of not running anywhere when I return from the MDS! After that, I’m not sure. I feel like I have started a journey and found that I am actually quite good and enjoy something I always disliked. Besides, I have bought a lot of expensive and specialised desert running kit now.
Lastly, how did your decision to take part in the MDS impact your life?
I think the true answer to this remains to be seen. However, up until now I have gone from not being able to run very well or for very long, to running marathons. I have no spare time and I have lost weight (something I didn’t need to do!). I know I am going to experience something very different and very tough with people I do not yet know. The impact on my life could be profound — let’s hope I don’t think about the big picture too much whilst in the middle of the Sahara. And to my fellow 2015 MDS participants, I hope we can all help each through and complete the MDS together.
