Running a marathon is a massive feat in itself, but what about completing a 155-mile course out in the Sahara Desert?

Peter Fisher did just that. The 38-year-old from Douglas faced all kinds of weather including extreme heat, cold nights and sand storms all while reaching the Marathon Des Sables 2018 (MDS) finish line.

’The conditions were an eye-opener,’ he said. ’It was very, very hot in the day (as you would expect in the Sahara) and extremely cold in the evening.

’Throw in three sandstorms and it takes it to a different level.’

Known as the world’s most challenging foot race, Peter ran, walked (and sometimes even crawled) for a total of six days until he reached the end.

Participants of the MDS, which is in its 33rd year, are also expected to carry their own food, sleeping gear and other essential supplies.

’The race was very tough, brutal at times, but to complete the MDS was very rewarding. It showed me just how far human endurance can go,’ he explained.

Originally from Liverpool, Peter raised £6,545 for the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at Noble’s Hospital through his efforts in south Morocco last month. His target amount was £5,000.

It was the SCBU that had fuelled his determination to complete the MDS, as the unit had helped to save his niece who was born with some serious complications.

In a previous interview, Peter said: ’If it wasn’t for the SCBU team she probably wouldn’t be here today.’

To prepare for his first ultramarathon, Peter spent months running a minimum of four miles per day around the island, wearing a backpack with bags of flour weighing eight to nine kilograms.

On reflection, he said: ’My training was fine regarding hills and beach running.

’I felt really good, but I encountered really bad blisters on day one [of the MDS], so I really had to manage my feet.

’The medical team, Doc Trotters, were on first name terms with me, as I had to go to their tent every day. I am at one with a scalpel and iodine and tape.

’Carrying my supplies got easier as the days went on, as I was eating my food to bring the weight down each day.’

He added: ’I did dream about pizza.’

When asked what the highlight of the whole challenge was, he replied: ’Apart from the finishing and the amazing amount raised for the SCBU, it would have to be the friendships I now have with my seven tent mates.

’[They’re] all very different people from very different backgrounds who made our tent an amazing place of laughter and fun.

’Sharing a sandstorm in the middle of the night creates an unbreakable bond and we all finished the MDS.

’The most gruelling moment was completing the long day.

’This is one stage that is 86km long and I was shuffling for about 24 hours to complete this due to my blisters.

’I really had to dig in but I managed to get round.

’Myself and my tent mate Richard completed this together.’

Peter also added that it was difficult being away from his family, especially as he could send only one email per day to his loved ones.

’However, he received many in return, which provided him with great encouragement.

’If you’re thinking about doing this race I would definitely recommend it,’ he said.

’It’s amazing to take part in and the memories will stay with me forever. It is a tough challenge but worth all the effort.

’I would like to thank everyone who sponsored me. I really appreciate it,’ he added.