Explorer and writer Sir Ranulph Fiennes will be taking on ‘the toughest footrace on earth’, the Marathon des Sables - all in a bid to become the oldest Briton to ever complete the race and raise money for UK charity Marie Curie. The Marathon des Sables is a grueling six day ‘ultra-marathon’ which covers 251 km in over 50 degrees centigrade heat in one of the world’s most inhospitable climates - the Sahara desert. The money raised will help the charity to provide more free care and support to people living with any terminal illness and their families, across the UK.
Sir Ranulph, who turned 71 this March, is no stranger to physical challenges and is the holder of several endurance records despite suffering two heart attacks, undergoing a double heart bypass, a cancer operation and an on-going fight with diabetes. Speaking about the Marathon des Sables, Sir Ranulph said: “People say I must be mad, especially as I don’t like the heat, but it’s what you’ve got to do to raise money for amazing charities like Marie Curie. The money raised will help people with a terminal illness get the care they and their family desperately need.”
Sir Ranulph Fiennes has already raised £6.3million for Marie Curie.
We're delighted to say we've been offered a chance to ask Sir Ranulph some questions during his extraordinary challenge which he will be answered on video for our snazzy new Youtube channel.
Sir Ranulph added: “I'm looking forward to receiving some interesting questions from Gransnetters whilst I'm in the desert.”
Please add your questions here by 4pm Thursday 4th April.
And if you would like to donate to marie curie to support Sir Ranulph you can do so at Justgiving.