The Race and The Runners

About the Marathon Des Sables

Held in Southern Morocco each year, the Marathon des Sable (MDS) is an extreme endurance challenge considered by many to be the “toughest footrace on Earth.” 

Participants cover approximately 250 km (156 miles) over the course of six days. During this time, they must traverse the Sahara desert crossing dunes, mountains, and brave sandstorms, while carrying all of their own supplies, including food, clothing, a sleeping bag, and other items needed to survive, except for a small ration of water given out each day.

About the Runners

Ian Lye

Ian has led a nomadic existence for a large part of his live, having travelled to more than 60 countries and lived in North Carolina, Washington D.C., Seville, Beirut and Damascus. He is currently back in his native Singapore working for Thomson Reuters as a Research Manager while also pursuing a part-time Masters degree at Nanyang Technological University.

As an owner of 3 dogs, animal welfare causes have always tugged at his heartstrings. The work of SOSD in particular has been a cause that is deeply personal to him, as he adopted one of the dogs rescued by SOSD 2 years ago.

Ian has always sought to push his mental and physical limits, and this drove his decision to participate in the Marathon Des Sables (MDS), an extreme endurance challenge in the Sahara desert that is considered by many to be the toughest footrace on Earth. Although Ian has been running for many years, he had never run further than a full marathon. In 2013, however, he completed a 100 km ultramarathon in September as part of his preparation for the desert race. By participating in the MDS, he hopes to help SOSD raise SG$50,000 to offset the astronomical costs that are required for its operating expenses.

Juggling work, studies and training has been tough, but Ian believes the sacrifices are worthwhile. Knowing that ever kilometere he completes will help raise more funds for the dogs is a source of strength that he will draw from in the Sahara, and that will help him cross that finish line.

Wei Chong

For the past 10 years of his professional life, Wei Chong has spearheaded CSR programmes and led  several initiatives to raise funds for charities. Wei Chong is currently the APAC Marketing Communications Director of First Advantage.

Wei Chong strongly believes in contributing actively to worthy causes and is pleased to be able to help raise funds for Save Our Street Dogs through his participation in the MDS. Wei Chong is married with two children and his other leisure pursuits include reading, travelling and spending time with his family.

Wei Chong has participated in countless races and marathons since year 2000. An avid adventurer with a zest for the path less travelled, he has backpacked across the Middle East and scaled numerous mountains in South East Asia. Upon completing his 12th marathon last year, Wei Chong decided to participate in the Marathon Des Sables to challenge himself and also help SOSD raise funds.