Known simply as the MdS, the race is a gruelling multi-stage adventure through a formidable landscape in one of the world’s most inhospitable climates - the Sahara desert. The rules require that all participants are to be self-sufficient, to carry with them on their back everything except water that they need to survive. Participants are given a place in a tent to sleep at night, but any other equipment and food must be carried.

The MdS is a multi-day ‘ultra-marathon’ or ‘ultra’ run in six days over a course of between 150 and 156 (254km) miles. Which is the equivalent of running from London to Dover deciding not to go to France after all and running back againin 120 degree heat with a backpack on.

Below, is Austin's schedule for the week:

• Day 1 - 33.8 km
• Day 2 - 38.5 km
• Day 3 - 35 km
• Day 4 - 81.5 km
• Day 5 - 42.2 km
• Day 6 - 15.5 km

So, to summerise... The MdS is a six day race. There is only one rest day. The distance is about 254 km. The longest stage is about 91 km.

Visit Austin's race page here

Sponsor Austin here

Austin is raising money for:

• Help For Heroes
• The Eve Appeal
• Voluntary Services Overseas
• Oak Tree Farm Rural Project