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AN
ILL WIND
We hadn't known such a cold April in Ouarzazate for decades
but it unfortunately landed on the gala dinner evening.
Whilst we regret that it spoiled the festivities, other
than taking it out on Mr Weather, there was nothing to be
done but to brave the cold. As for having to wait for the
Governor to arrive for the prize-giving, it was a question
of respecting the protocol which as you'll understand, we
as organisers have to respect. Next year we will put another
system in place.
DOPING
CONTROL
In line with international norms and under the surveillance
of the French Athletics Federation (FFA), doping controls
were carried out at the finish line of legs 3 and 5 on those
first in and the leaders in each category. Whatever suspicious
minds might think, no sample analysed tested positive. Having
said that, whether other race organisers follow us or not,
we willcontinue these tests in future editions.
CARELESS
WHISPERS
Our race regulations are as precise as can be and we have
always levied penalties irrespective of the person's ranking,
relying on concrete facts and not responding to some rumour
or other. What's more, if something is bothering you, rather
than brooding in a corner you should speak to the organisation
who are the only ones able to answer your questions.
STRONGER
BY THE DAY!
From Pascale MARTIN (F) to Corinne KICK (F), 55 women from
11 countries crossed the finish line of the 15th MDS including
6 Moroccans who perfectly illustrate the sporting state
of mind and modernity of their beautiful country. Once again
they showed exemplary courage and enthusiasm.
RUNNING
IN TEAMS
They may be made up of friends, members of a club, of a
federation... Nothing stops the best runners from joining
up together to look for a sponsor, whether it be in France,
Italy or Spain. You just have to remember that there will
always be unknown runners who'll break through and outsmart
all the forecasts. That's competition for you!
AND
MANY HAD TO DROP
OUT!
It's not the first time that the wind has spiced up the
race but MDS had never seen so many people abandon. The
dune stage was certainly difficult and the pacing of water
intake was demanding, but over the last 15 years each edition
has had its share of difficulties. Good preparation and
pacing oneself for each leg are the keys to success; there
still remains the question of correctly estimating the level
of the race..
LAST
MINUTE !!!
The publishing company SPE inform us that the superb book
on 15 years of MDS will now be suplished in september. They
sincerely apologise.
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