Marathon Des Sables

SPOT: Official tracking partner to the Marathon Des Sables

THE TOUGHEST FOOTRACE ON EARTH

Since 2015, oganisers of the MARATHON DES SABLES (MDS) have used the SPOT Gen3 satellite tracker to safeguard and track more than 1,200 extreme athletes as they traverse vast expanses of Morocco's desert in searing heat. In fact, in the last three races supported by SPOT, no fewer than 45 competitors have been rescued within minutes thanks to SPOT Gen3.

Held for over 35 years, MDS has rightfully been dubbed The World's Toughest Foot Race, putting participants to the test with a gruelling, multi-stage challenge of strength and endurance across the inhospitable Sahara Desert.

Comprising of six marathons in six days, covering over 250km of desert sands, with athletes carrying all their essential supplies except for water and a tent.

Every competitor carries a rugged, lightweight SPOT Gen3 unit so organisers can track their progress. SPOT's satellite enabled tracking helps officials ensure athletes don't stray off course; and SPOT's one-touch SOS button is standing by if they face an emergency or are in distress.

MDS officials will use SPOT to monitor the location of athletes and in the event of an emergency, coordinate support teams including security and medical vehicles, helicopters and even a camel.

SPOT processes the tracking data from the SPOT devices and enables family, sponsors and supporters to follow the race live and to track the performances of their favourite athletes. They are also notified by email when their chosen athlete approaches the end of each stage so they can watch them cross the finish line live on the webcam.