This April a team of three veterans are taking part in one of the toughest endurance races on earth, raising vital funds for ‘The Not Forgotten’ with every determined step.

The Marathon des Sables, now in its 37th year, is a 7-day 250km ultramarathon (roughly the distance of 6 regular marathons) across the Sahara Desert.

The terrain is tough, the temperatures can reach 38 degrees and all kit has to be carried by the participants themselves, with carefully rationed food, water, and sleeping gear.

Martin Ash, Martin Beard and Jason Johnston are tackling this extraordinary challenge from April 21st – May 1st 2023. Andy Brown was due to take part in the challenge but unfortunately had to pull out for medical reasons. The Team wish Andy well.

The three men have all faced their own physical and mental challenges as military veterans. The charity ‘The Not Forgotten’ has played a huge part in each of their journeys, and as a result they want to tackle the epic Marathon des Sables as a fundraising challenge, aiming to raise as much as they possibly can as Team Not Forgotten.

The Not Forgotten provides events and challenge and respite opportunities for wounded serving personnel and disabled veterans, aiming to improve physical and mental health, address isolation and loneliness, and promote a sense of community and balance, enabling beneficiaries to live a normal, if not better life. Established in 1920, they still support over 10,000 beneficiaries each year, lifting spirits and transforming lives.