This Sunday, the annual Marathon des Sables (Marathon of the Sands) began, as it does every year, in the dead heat of the Sahara desert. For this event, ultra-marathoners from around the globe meet at the starting line in Morocco, where they begin their 151-mile endurance feat. This, in and of itself, is a huge undertaking, even for the fittest person — considering that the six-day event equates to nearly six marathons in 120 degree weather, in the middle of the sandy desert. But, in addition, competitors are required to carry all of their gear in a backpack, the entire way. For this reason, the Marathone Des Sables is a race for endurance junkies around the world, and has brought racers from around the world for 24 years (and counting).

Check race results here.

[Via: The Adventure Blog]