Rachid El Morabity Enters Legend with 11th Victory at the Marathon des Sables
Moroccan Rachid El Morabity has made history at the Marathon des Sables by claiming his eleventh victory in this legendary endurance race, which takes place over six days across the dunes of the Moroccan Sahara.
At 42 years old, El Morabity surpasses the previous record of ten victories held by another prominent figure in the sport, Lahcen Ahansal. He completed the event with a total time of 20 hours, 55 minutes, and 47 seconds, finishing 5 minutes and 3 seconds ahead of his brother Mohammed El Morabity, who secured second place with a time of 21 hours, 0 minutes, and 50 seconds. The third position also went to a Moroccan, Ahmed Ouikhalfen, who finished with a time of 22 hours, 27 minutes, and 58 seconds.
In the final stage, which spanned 21.1 kilometers, Rachid crossed the finish line first with a time of 1 hour, 41 minutes, and 3 seconds, followed by Mohammed (1 hour, 41 minutes, and 39 seconds) and Ahmed (1 hour, 43 minutes, and 29 seconds).
The Marathon des Sables is a unique race in the world: 250 kilometers of self-sufficient endurance, spread over six stages, under extreme conditions, where each competitor must carry their own equipment, including food and mandatory gear.
The 38th edition, held from April 12 to 22, 2024, showcased an undeniable Moroccan dominance, with victories for Rachid El Morabity among men and Aziza El Amrany among women.
