The legendary Marathon des Sables (‘Marathon of the Sands’) is the toughest footrace on earth: a 250km, six-day ultramarathon in the Sahara Desert. Every year, some of the world’s most elite runners take on the challenge. 

We are so proud that Brendan Mitchell and Gareth Jones completed the race to raise money for Chance for Childhood, raising an amazing total of £12,042 to support children! 

Gareth, one of our ambassadors, is a runner and mental health advocate who completes regular challenges to raise money for causes close to his heart. Gareth achieved 2nd place for his age category in the race. 

He said: ‘So I’d like to say thank you because whilst completing MDS was my main goal, I set out to raise a massive amount of money for Chance for Childhood which proved harder than I thought and at one point I thought it was impossible. But with your endless support and generous donations, I didn’t give up!’ 

Brendan has completed multiple marathons, ultra-marathons, cycling events and more. Brendan underwent an incredible 13 ½ stone weight loss journey and can now add the Marathon des Sables to his long list of achievements.  

He said: ‘I was very fortunate to have represented Chance for Childhood as this year’s MDS runner. Their charitable efforts strive to ensure that no child should have to fight for a safe, happy childhood. To ensure that every child in Africa can thrive from their early years through to adulthood and they work to protect, educate and create lasting change for every child threatened by violence, neglect and conflict. Thank you for entrusting me and Gareth with places this year. Their help, guidance and support was invaluable and I look forward to working with them in the future.’ 

We are so grateful that Gareth and Brendan chose to race in support of Chance for Childhood. A huge thank you to them and well done on this incredible achievement! 

Interested in taking on a challenge to transform children’s lives? See our Events calendar here.