How ‘fear of getting old’ motivates 76-year-old runner who set a record in 250km Sahara Desert race

Harry Hunter became the oldest Briton to cross the finish line of the 2024 Marathon des Sables, a 250km race that coincided with his 76th birthday

He safeguards his longevity and vitality by healthy eating – including lots of bananas – and ‘hard training’. He’s targeting another ultra race in six months

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Harry Hunter, 76, takes part in the 250km Marathon des Sables ultramarathon through the Sahara Desert, the world’s hardest foot race. The Briton explains what motivates him and to what he ascribes his running prowess. Photo: Marathon des Sables

Published: 4:15am, 14 May 2024Updated: 8:19am, 14 Jun 2024

Amid the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, Harry Hunter celebrated his 76th birthday in late April in a manner that defied convention.

Far from the comforts of his UK home, Hunter swapped the companionship of friends and family for the company of the occasional camel, and birthday cake for freeze-dried meals.

Why? So he could compete in the toughest foot race on Earth – the Marathon des Sables, a 250km (155-mile), six-day endurance event demanding inordinate amounts of grit. Runners endure temperatures that soar to a blistering 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).

On the day itself, he woke to face a gruelling 40km-plus run across the scorching sands.

Training hard and mental strength are two of the key factors that keep me motivated at my age

Harry Hunter, 76

Hunter is no ordinary septuagenarian. His spirit is one defined by bravery and resilience. Electing to mark his birthday by participating in the ultra-marathon, Hunter entered the echelons of history.