Marathon in the Moroccan Desert
The Marathon des Sables held its 31st edition of the competition in the Sahara desert. The MdS foundation raises funds to help families through education in order to improve their quality of life.
Jean-Philippe Ksiazek/AFP/Getty
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
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