The sun has finally arrived in Erfoud, bringing smiles on runners and competitors' faces. The 24th MDS began with the usual technical and administrative verifications. Runners had to comply formalities regarding their rucksak weight, calories (2000 calories minimum required) and compulsory safety items (compass, knife, mirror, whistle, aluminium survival sheet). Participants had to present themselves to the race adminstrators before receiving their identification number.

The come back of Lachen Ahansal is of course one of the most important event of this edition. He promised to stop after 10 victories and he kept his word... for a better and really appreciated come back after his absence last year . He remains the great favourite. His young brother, Mohammad Ahansal, who kept the precious prize since the previous edition, seemed to be worried regarding the weather conditions : ? because of the rain, the ground is less soft. And as you know, it is easier for runners to take a clear lead on sand surface.  It will be harder than last year... ?Same explanations according to the talented Jordanian outsider, Salameh Al Aqrah, 2nd in 2008.

On the women's side, all the favourites expected are taking part in the competition : Simone Keyzer coming from Luxembourg, with 3 victories under her belt, and the winner of the previous edition, the moroccan Touda Didi.

This afternoon, the race Director Patrick Bauer, has been referred to the 812 participants. He has called to everybody's mind the possibility to cancel the race because of bad weather conditions. In accordance with all competitors, decision has been taken to maintain the race meanwhile adding route modifications in the order to avoid oueds in spate.

These important last route alterations should complicate the race development for runners and support staff « I know that you did so many sacrifices for taking part in this competition, so we have to take up together this challenge. It will not be easy but unity is strength! ». Competitors warmly applaused the words of Patrick Bauer regarding this quite unique edition.