Desert marathon test for footballer

THE world's toughest foot race is awaiting footballer Martin Westcott.

Former Royston Town forward Martin will be taking part in the Marathon des Sables, a 151-mile endurance race through the Sahara Desert, later this month.

Martin, 30, will be raising money for pupils at Castle School in Cambridge, a specialist school for children and young people with complex learning difficulties.

All Martin's sponsorship money will go directly towards providing a disabled child with a specially-adapted trike.

He said: "I have been training for the race for the last 12 months, running regularly, and taking part in a number of distance events, but I have yet to experience running over such difficult terrain, or in high temperatures."

The race, which begins on March 27, will take place over a week, and will be broken down into six stages.

Contestants will be running anything from 15-50 miles per day, with temperatures averaging 50 degrees centigrade during the day, and falling to sub-zero at night.

Martin, who has three daughters, and works for Melbourn Scientific, said: "I like to think I am quite fit.

"I play football in the Eastern Counties league for Haverhill Rovers, but I reckon this race will really test my stamina, and mental and physical endurance."

Martin will be joined by his brother-in-law Simon Fisher.

The pair will have to carry everything they need to cross the desert, including sleeping bags, food, medical supplies, and clothing - only drinking water will be provided.

Carol McCarthy, head teacher at Castle School, said: "This is great news. Trikes are invaluable for supporting mobility and building self-esteem, and need to be specially adapted.

"It is fitting that Martin's multi-marathon effort will help a child gain freedom of movement."

To sponsor Martin, contact martin.westcott@melbournscientific.com or visit www.martinwestcott.saharamarathon.co.uk