Express Tevi: Mustafa Filali
The fourth stage of the Marathon of Sand, stretching over a distance of 100.9 kilometers, revealed early signs of determination, confirming its status as the toughest leg of the race and presenting a true test of physical and mental endurance in harsh desert conditions.
In the men’s competition, a fierce battle unfolded until the final meters, where Moroccan runner Mohamed Maraabti clinched first place with a time of 8:24:32, just seconds ahead of French competitor Ludovic Pomery (8:24:44). Rashid Maraabti came in third with a time of 8:39:00, showcasing his strong presence in major endurance races.
In the overall ranking, Mohamed Maraabti strengthened his lead with a total time of 16:07:55, followed by his brother Rashid (16:26:20), while Pomery occupies third place (16:33:34). This close competition in times signals an open contest in the remaining stages.
In the women’s category, French runner Mariline Nakach shone brightly, finishing in first place with a time of 10:02:22, ahead of Moroccan Aziza Al-Amrawi (11:40:00). Japanese competitor Tomomi Bito secured third with a time of 13:25:13.
Nakach solidified her lead in the overall women’s ranking with a total of 19:50:05, followed by Al-Amrawi (22:32:12) and Bito (26:17:42).
As the race approaches its crucial stages, the intensity of competition increases, making energy management and mental control pivotal elements in a contest that rewards only the strongest and most patient.
