On April 9, 2016, a competitor trains in the southern Moroccan Sahara on the eve of the 31st Marathon des Sables, also known as MdS.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
MdS is a live-stage, 257 kilometer race in one of the world's most inhospitable climates.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
The MdS has been called the toughest footrace on Earth by The Discovery Channel.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
Competitors rest and eat at their bivouac between Oued Moungarf and Ba Hallou in the southern Moroccan Sahara desert on April 12, 2016.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
Competitors take part in Stage 3 of the marathon.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
Stage 3 of the marathon is 40 kilometers long and includes, but is not limited to, a sandy climb up Rich Chouiref jebel as well as trekking across multiple small dunes.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
An individual competes in the second stage of MdS.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
On the eve of the MdS, a person stands outside his tent awaiting its start.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
A competitor receives treatment for their feet at the end of the third stage.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
Marathoners take part in this grueling multi-stage adventure through the desert.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
The first MdS took place in 1986 with 186 competitors. AFP / JEAN-PHILIPPE KSIAZEK
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
