Myerscough student completes the ‘toughest footrace on Earth’

Anna Harper crosses the finish line at the end of the Marathon des Sables

Anna Harper is a PhD candidate at Myerscough in Agriculture and Countryside, having initially studied a Foundation Degree in Ecology & Conservation, before moving onto BSc Honours Degree in Rural Resource Management.

The Marathon des Sables is run over more than 250 kilometres, over six days across the Sahara desert in Morocco, over sand dunes, dry river beds and mountain ranges, all against the clock. Competitors face temperatures of up to 50 degrees Celsius, with a limited water supply and carrying their own food, cooking equipment and sleeping bag in a rucksack.

Anna has a target of raising £5,000 for two charities that directly help Myerscough College students. Papyrus, who carry out incredible work on preventing suicide for young people, and Breathe, who offer well-being and therapeutic care for eating disorders.

Anna said: ‘’Myerscough College is a place that is full of such incredible, wonderful people and continually supports students to fulfil their goals, including supporting me to reach my dream of researching in the field of ecology.

‘’I know that it can be a difficult time for some people at college and university, being away from home and among new or strange people. Lots of students need a helping hand to get them through this time and help them achieve their potential. Myerscough has certainly helped me and I would not be studying for my PhD without help I had received along the way.

‘’Myerscough help students in many ways through various initiatives set up by their student welfare team. Therefore all of the money I raise will go to projects that help Myerscough students.’’

You can donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/anna-harper-mds