Each year, I speak to hundreds of runners who have the same dream - to take part in ‘The World’s Toughest Footrace - The Marathon des Sables.
And every year, I hear the same worries. ‘I'm not fast enough. I’m worried about getting lost. I’ve not even run a marathon before. And what if I fail?’
The truth is everyone who signs up for the Marathon des Sables has these thoughts. Even experienced runners wonder whether they’re capable of taking on one of the world’s most iconic endurance events.
The Marathon des Sables has a reputation that can be intimidating. Six stages over seven days in the Sahara Desert – self-sufficient – in extreme conditions. It sounds like something reserved for elite runners and hardened adventurers.
But after nineteen MDS Legendary finishes, and thousands of miles in deserts around the world, I can tell you something that might surprise you. The biggest challenge isn't the desert. It’s taking the first step and believing you can do it. That's exactly why my ‘Team Coleman’ exists.
You don't have to do it alone…
One of the biggest mistakes people make is thinking they have to figure everything out themselves. What shoes should I wear? What food do I need? What backpack works best? How do I train? How do I cope with the heat? How do I avoid the dreaded blisters?
These questions can feel overwhelming, especially if you've never done a multi-stage race before. But when you join my team, you aren't simply entering a race. You're joining a community of people who are on the same journey as you.
Some are experienced runners looking for a fresh challenge. Others are complete beginners who never imagined they would one day cross a desert. What connects them all is a willingness to challenge themselves and a desire to achieve something extraordinary.
Over the years, I've helped thousands of runners prepare for desert races. I've seen people arrive with doubts, fears and uncertainty, only to leave with memories that last a lifetime. The transformation is wonderful to be part of.
Why people succeed…
People often assume success in the Marathon des Sables comes from natural talent. It doesn't. Success comes from preparation, consistency and mindset.
I've seen elite runners in their twenties struggle whilst people in their sixties smash it. I've seen people who considered themselves average athletes complete the race high up in the field.
The common factor isn't speed. It's commitment. The runners who succeed are the ones who trust the process, prepare properly and refuse to give up when things get tough. That's exactly what Team Coleman is designed to help you do.
From training plans and equipment advice to race strategy and mental preparation, I’ll guide you through every stage of the journey. By the time you arrive in Morocco, you're not wondering whether you can do it.
You're ready to prove that you can do it.
The Adventure of a Lifetime…
The Marathon des Sables is far more than about running. Sure, you'll see incredible landscapes. You'll experience vast dunes, rocky plateaus and unforgettable desert sunsets.
But the real magic happens between the checkpoints. It's the friendships you’ll build. The shared experiences with people from around the world. The moments when you discover what you're truly capable of.
Years later, most people don't remember their finishing time. They remember the journey. They remember the challenges they overcame. They remember becoming a stronger version of themselves. That's what makes the Marathon des Sables so special.
You see it changes people. It changed me. And that’s why I'm going back for my Twentieth Marathon des Sables.
And I continue to be inspired by the incredible individuals who take on this challenge.
Watching someone who once doubted themselves cross the finish line is every bit as rewarding as finishing the race myself. The event has been a huge part of my life for decades. It’s introduced me to lifelong friends and allowed me to help others achieve goals they once thought impossible.
Returning for my twentieth Marathon des Sables isn't about adding another finish to the list. It's about celebrating a race that has shaped my life and continuing to support the people who are beginning their own desert journey. I mean, not many people have met their lifelong partner at the race, like I have. Or had the pleasure of running the race with one of their children, twice and soon to be third time! And had a daughter be a race Blue-Jacket.
There's something incredibly special about standing on that start line and seeing a Team Coleman runner who once said, ‘I don’t think I can do this. And then watching them prove themselves wrong.
Your journey starts Today…
If you're reading this and wondering whether you should sign up for the Marathon des Sables, let me tell you something. The fear you're feeling is normal. The uncertainty is normal. Your doubts are normal.
What matters is what you do next. The Marathon des Sables isn't reserved for superhuman athletes. It's for ordinary people willing to take on an extraordinary challenge. You don't need all the answers today. You simply need the courage to begin.
Join Team Coleman, and I'll help you with the rest.
Together we'll build your confidence, prepare you properly and guide you every step of the way until you stand on that start line in the Sahara. Let's make your desert dream a reality.
1,242 Marathons - 292 Ultras - 10 GWR - 19 Marathon des Sables - 1 Vision
