04 Mar 2026
A woman from Harpenden is taking on a huge challenge in the sweltering heat of the Sahara Desert to raise money for a charity which supports her sister.
Nicola Dudley will complete the Marathon des Sables in April to help Harpenden Mencap. The route, which she will run in seven days, is a phenomenal 270km across the Sahara Desert.
It is a journey of self-sufficiency, as she will be carrying everything required for the seven days except a tent and water.
The former Roundwood primary and St Albans High School for Girls pupil turned 50 at the end of last year and was looking for a challenge: “I have spent my career as a teacher and senior leader in secondary schools; I am currently taking a break between positions, and so have had the time to train and prepare for the race.
“The Marathon des Sables is a race I have been aware of, but it never crossed my mind that I might give it a go, until in recent years the idea grew and finally this year I decided to take the leap. It is certainly the toughest challenge I have taken on and I am looking forward to seeing how far I can push myself.”
Her training, which has increased gradually, is going well so far, she said. As part of it she took part in The Pilgrim Challenge – a two-day ultra marathon 110km along the North Downs Way.
With only five weeks to go, she said the important thing is to maintain her fitness without picking up an injury and “getting to the start line strong”.
Nicola said: “I have some heat chamber training sessions in the final run-up to help with heat acclimation. It is important to spend time preparing myself mentally for the challenges of the race, not only the distance, but also ensuring I have all the essentials to be self-sufficient for the duration, without carrying any more weight than I need, and preparing for camp life in the desert.”
She explained why she is running for Harpenden Mencap: “This local charity is doing incredible work to support and care for adults with learning disabilities in Harpenden and the surrounding area, enabling them to live happy, fulfilled lives.
“Their mission is to build a community that values learning-disabled people and supports them to be active citizens through supported living services, clubs and activities, and lifelong learning with practical skills for everyday independence.
“The work of Harpenden Mencap has a very tangible impact on the lives of adults in the community, but they rely on charity fundraising to meet the needs of their work.”
Harpenden Mencap head of fundraising Christine Goldsmith said: “Every step Nicola takes will directly support the clubs, social opportunities and activities Harpenden Mencap provides that enrich the lives of adults with learning disabilities in our community.”
You can sponsor Nicola’s efforts here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/nicola-dudley-3
