For most people, signing up to run a marathon is a daunting prospect but for Alan Dick the challenge just wasn’t big enough.
This week, the Maryculter man has travelled to the Sahara desert to take part in a 156-mile challenge dubbed the “toughest footrace on earth”.
The gruelling Marathon Des Sables (MDS) consists of five-and-a-half consecutive marathons completed over six days in searing 40C heat.
The vice president of industry and technology at investment bank Simmons & Co is putting himself through the paces on behalf of Aberdeen’s Maggie’s centre and international humanitarian development organisation Mercy Corps.
He hopes to raise at least £10,000.
Speaking before the race, which kicks off today, he said: “I know many people who have used Maggie’s Aberdeen for support during cancer treatment which is why it is my chosen local charity.”
Mr Dick registered for the ultra-marathon after reading an article about the event last year.
He said: “It seemed like a challenge but one I felt that I could take on.
“In saying that, there’s no doubt that the training has been intense and has really ramped up in the last few months.
“Since Christmas, I have not had a drop of alcohol and I’ve been trying to run at least 80 kilometres (48 miles) every week through a mix of gym sessions and beach training at Balmedie.”
The keen athlete has previously completed half marathons, 10k runs and last year’s Tough Mudder contest, as well as cycling from Lands End to John O’ Groats.
On top of running such a long distance in one of the world’s most inhospitable climates, participants in the MDS – who this year include veteran adventurer Sir Ranulph Fiennes – must also carry everything they need to survive.
Mr Dick, 48, said: “I’ve trained for weeks with my loaded pack so I can get used to the weight when running.
“It includes, food, water, first aid and emergency equipment such as a compass and signal mirror.
“It is also compulsory for all runners to carry an anti-venom pump in case we encounter any scorpions or even camel spiders along the way as both can give you a nasty sting.”
His clothing and footwear are also especially suited to dealing with the demanding African climate.
He will wear gaiters with a velcro edge fixed around the sole to keep sand out of socks and shoes.
His clothes are also made from material designed to reflect the sun’s rays and retain sweat which would otherwise evaporate in the blistering heat.
Mr Dick said: “I’ve been warned that ‘heat and feet’ are the two main issues for competitors in the event so I’ve had some advice from a podiatrist and invested in extensive protection and footwear.
“I’ve even read a whole book about looking after feet so hopefully I’m well prepared.”
Vicki Corbett, of Maggies, said: “Maggie’s relies entirely on voluntary donations and it costs our Aberdeen centre around £500,000 a year to run so this money will make a real difference to those who need our support while receiving treatment for cancer or caring for a loved one with cancer.”
To support Mr Dick’s fundraising efforts, visit the Virgin Giving website and search for Alan Dick.