Ultramarathoner raises £5,000 by racing through Sahara

Lesley Malloch, a PE teacher at Marlborough School in Woodstock, took on the challenge in the Sahara Desert.

She completed the legendary Marathon des Sables, a seven-day ultramarathon across the Sahara, raising £5,600 for Oxford Hospitals Charity and SeeSaw Grief Support.

Ms Malloch said: “This race was brilliant and brutal in equal measure – but I had the most incredible experience.

“I fundraised for Seesaw when I ran my very first marathon in 2017, and later helped to raise money for the Oxford Children’s Hospital during our ‘Big Gethin Run’.”

“Their impact is real, lasting, and close to home. Most importantly, fundraising £5,600 for two charities that mean so much made every step worthwhile.

“Knowing it will help young people and families through difficult times kept me going.”

Known as one of the toughest footraces on earth, the Marathon des Sables covers sand dunes and rocky terrain.

Runners must carry all their food, kit, and survival essentials on their backs.

Ms Malloch dedicated her challenge to Gethin and Zak, two former students at Marlborough School, and trained specifically for the punishing desert environment.

She said: “It’s not just about pounding the pavement; it’s about conditioning my body to run on sand, training with a weighted pack, and preparing for the brutal heat.

“I met incredible people along the way who helped me through the toughest moments, and I’m so grateful for the support that got me to the start line ready, and to everyone who cheered me on.”

Claire Hughes from Oxford Hospitals Charity congratulated Ms Malloch on her achievement.

She said: “Huge congratulations to Lesley – we’re in awe of her amazing achievement and incredibly grateful for the outstanding amount she has raised for both charities.”

Liv Webster, communications officer at SeeSaw Grief Support, also praised Ms Malloch for raising both funds and awareness.

She said: “Lesley has not only taken on an immense personal challenge by raising incredible funds and awareness, she has also made a real difference for bereaved children and young people across Oxfordshire.

“We are so grateful to Lesley for going above and beyond to ensure that families in our community receive the support they need, when they need it most.”

Ms Malloch described the experience as life-changing.

She added: “This is an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life.”