The Libyan Challenge

The Libyan Challenge is a 100 mile non-stop race that takes place in SW Libya. This is the only race in the world record attempt that Sandy will be on a team. She will race with fellow Filipino athlete Tess Geddes. Sandy and Tess have met up at two previous races...The Sahara Race in 2005, and they became very good friends at the Atacama Race in 2006. Sandy and Tess are both coached by American legend...Lisa Smith-Batchen.

What Is The Libyan Challenge

Athletes are given 4 days to complete the 100 mile race. Times range from a very quick 32 hours to as long as 75 hours to complete the race. Athletes must carry everything they will need for the race on their backs. This includes food, gear and emergency aid. Water checkpoints are spaced about 20kms apart.

Where Does The Libyan Challenge Take Place?

The Libyan Challenge will take place around the ancient city of Ghat. It is in SW Libya near the Algerian border.

When Is The Libyan Challenge?

The Libyan Challenge starts on Tuesday, March 6th, and ends on Friday, March 9th. 77 athletes are expected to take part, 13 are women.

What Will The Weather Be Like For The Libyan Challenge?

During March temperatures will be around 30 degrees Celsius, with lows of about 10 degrees.

Who Lives In Libya?

There are 5,900,000 people living in Libya. The main ethnic groups are Berbers and Arabs.

Facts About Libya

The U.S. resumed diplomatic relations with Libya in May 2006 and rescinded Libya's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism in June.

The capital city of Libya is Tripoli.

A natural hazard to be aware of in Libya is called a Ghibli. It is a southern wind lasting 1 to 4 days that brings duststorms and sandstorms.

Itinerary

Sandy leaves for the race on Wednesday, February 28th. She arrives in Paris on Thursday, March 1st. She has a few days to get over jetlag before leaving of Libya on Sunday morning. Sandy will land in Sebbah, Libya on Sunday afternoon. Athletes will take a bus to the first camp.

Monday, March 5th, 2007
Administrative verifications and technical briefings.

Tuesday, March 6th, 2007
The race begins at 9am.

Friday, March 9th, 2007
The race will end at 6am.

Saturday, March 10th, 2007
Awards banquet on Saturday evening. Local music and entertainment.

Sunday, March 11th, 2007
Travel back to Paris.

Monday, March 12th, 2007
Travel to Morocco to prepare for the last race in the world record...the Marathon des Sables.