Meltdown in the Sahara
Our 7 hour bus drive to Camp 1 was relatively uneventful barring the military check points. At a few of the way points, there was some negotiation going on with our local escorts before they would let us through. We have an entourage of military folks following us through the race packing some serious weapons. They are here for our safety. The camp was excellent with our last real meal for a week. My tent mates are all excellent folks and come from: Taiwan, Singapore, Ireland, South Africa, UK, Russia and U.S. A great group. It was extremely warm sleeping – which was a sign of what was to come...
Day 1: Distance 32 kilometers, total elevation gain: 101 feet, temperature: 110-115 F in the shade. Racing the Planet had the highest drop out rate of any leg of their events today. With the exposure, soft sand and temperatures that had everyone feeling like running on solar panels the carnage was severe. Even the locals were feeling as though it was a “hot day” here in the Sahara.
The start. Photo by Chris Lusher / Racing the Planet.
The first 10K section was nice, easy running. I settled into my pack and with a few small, on the go, adjustments, I got a nice easy trot going. As the sun rose higher, the pace started to slow, then to a walk, then to a bit of a stagger. We could see our check points for an hour or so at a stretch and there was no hiding from the sun. One fellow running near me stopped and tried to hide under a shrub. The medical truck was alerted and came to fetch him. He was one of many who were pulled off the course for heat issues. There were a few moments when actually I doubted myself – which was quite frustrating.
Battling heat and soft sand. Photo by Chris Lusher / Racing the Planet.
The heat was completely consuming – I’ve never experienced anything quite like it. I was having trouble keeping my thoughts clear and positive. Despite my strong effort for the day, it took its toll. I am recovering well though and I am looking to the long week as a slow test.
We went through the white desert today. The rock formations and expanses of white sand and limestone likened to a stroll on the moon. Those who pressed on to finish were amazing – coming into the finish through 7pm (after a 9 am start time). This is as hearty a group of athletes as I’ve come across. I’m inspired.
Runners nearing finish. Photo by Chris Lusher / Racing the Planet.
Tomorrow we go longer. I’m a bit nervous. I’m hopeful that I start to acclimate in a day or so and feel a tad better running.
Back at you tomorrow
Terri
Editor's Note: Send Terri notes of inspiration. Click here!
Day 1: Distance 32 kilometers, total elevation gain: 101 feet, temperature: 110-115 F in the shade. Racing the Planet had the highest drop out rate of any leg of their events today. With the exposure, soft sand and temperatures that had everyone feeling like running on solar panels the carnage was severe. Even the locals were feeling as though it was a “hot day” here in the Sahara.
The start. Photo by Chris Lusher / Racing the Planet.
The first 10K section was nice, easy running. I settled into my pack and with a few small, on the go, adjustments, I got a nice easy trot going. As the sun rose higher, the pace started to slow, then to a walk, then to a bit of a stagger. We could see our check points for an hour or so at a stretch and there was no hiding from the sun. One fellow running near me stopped and tried to hide under a shrub. The medical truck was alerted and came to fetch him. He was one of many who were pulled off the course for heat issues. There were a few moments when actually I doubted myself – which was quite frustrating.
Battling heat and soft sand. Photo by Chris Lusher / Racing the Planet.
The heat was completely consuming – I’ve never experienced anything quite like it. I was having trouble keeping my thoughts clear and positive. Despite my strong effort for the day, it took its toll. I am recovering well though and I am looking to the long week as a slow test.
We went through the white desert today. The rock formations and expanses of white sand and limestone likened to a stroll on the moon. Those who pressed on to finish were amazing – coming into the finish through 7pm (after a 9 am start time). This is as hearty a group of athletes as I’ve come across. I’m inspired.
Runners nearing finish. Photo by Chris Lusher / Racing the Planet.
Tomorrow we go longer. I’m a bit nervous. I’m hopeful that I start to acclimate in a day or so and feel a tad better running.
Back at you tomorrow
Terri
Editor's Note: Send Terri notes of inspiration. Click here!
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