Edivaldo MACIEL (BRA)

A lifelong sports lover, Edvaldo MACIEL took part in the MARATHON DES SABLES for the first time in 2023: "Knowing that we are going to take part in the MARATHON DES SABLES is a mixture of joy and anxiety, because we know that the journey to the finish line is going to be long!" Edvaldo trained intensely: running, bodybuilding, physiotherapy, all of which accompanied by appropriate nutrition. Businessmen and race organizer, Edvaldo is a competitor at heart and did not see himself going to the MDS "just to see".

Edvaldo's preparation was also mental and logistical: "In addition to preparing my body, I also prepared my head and read a lot about the event, I did tests with food and backpack so that everything is going as planned. " The first two days served the Brazilian to acclimatize, both to the desert, but also to the fact of being in a totally different environment: "Being away from family, friends and in a country that does not speak language and with a culture totally different from his own."

This year, the adventure started directly: "I witnessed two sandstorms, and I understood that the desert would always be stronger, and that I had to follow my plan with redoubled attention. In the tent, living with the other participants could not have been better. I made some great friends at the event, friends that I will take with me for the rest of my life…"

During the race itself, the Brazilian carefully managed his progress, his diet, his body parameters: "It was a mix of emotion, caution and concentration. The hardest day for me was the third day, it was difficult to develop a good rhythm knowing that the next day would be a long day."

Despite his rapid progress - he finished 68th overall - Edvaldo took the time to look at those around him: "I saw that a lot at MDS, people surpassing themselves, challenging each other, breaking down barriers, crossing obstacles, it was sensational and inspiring..." His advice for all future participants of the 38th edition? "Test your equipment, prepare your shoes and gaiters with great care, don't neglect your diet and your hydration, and above all try to train during the hottest hours of your city, it was fundamental for my result!"