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NEXT RACE DATE: February 28, 2011 Registration deadline: Dec 1, 2010 Running the Sahara is Sandblast’s annual awareness and fundraising project connected to the international sporting event known as the Saharamarathon. As the official UK facilitator, Sandblast’s role is to take the headache out of organizing the week long trip to participate in this unique running experience in support of the Saharawi refugees. Along with providing logistical support, we organize an educational/cultural programme for the participants to enrich their experience during their stay. This includes an evening in the dunes listening to music and having a traditional desert feast. AboutNot to be confused with the Marathon des Sables, in Morocco, the Saharamarathon takes place in the Algerian Sahara in the Saharawi refugee camps near Tindouf. It is organized by the refugees and volunteers from around the world and helps raise the visibility of the Saharawi plight as well as funds for projects to improve the lives of the long-term refugees. The first Saharamarathon took place in 2001 and every year has been attracting growing numbers of participants from around the globe. In 2010, 27 runners participated from the UK (the highest number yet) and raised over £20,000 for our Saharawi Artist Fund. They were joined by over 400 others from 22 different countries. Nearly 400 Saharawis also ran in the race. The event is professionally organized and draws top athletes as well as amateur runners. Participants can choose to run a full marathon, a half marathon, 10km or 5km. If you don’t like to run, but want to be part of the experience, you can walk instead. During your week in the camps you live with a Saharawi refugee family and get a unique chance to learn their story and experience the legendary hospitality of this exiled desert culture. The 2011 race
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