A-Rosa River Cruises’ Lucia Rowe is training for a gruelling 250km race across the Sahara in Morocco to raise money for Reuben’s Retreat.
The cruise line’s UK and Ireland managing director said the seven-day Marathon des Sables in April would be her “toughest” challenge so far.
It comes as she approaches her 50th birthday and has another six-month bill of remission from leukaemia – having been diagnosed five years ago.
Runners in the event – dubbed the “toughest foot race in the world” – have to carry their equipment for the entire seven-day race. Only water and a tent are transported for the participants, who camp every night.
More: Reuben’s Retreat hails Globes guests for raising £15k during event
Rowe has completed more than 20 marathons in the past four years to raise funds for travel-related charities. She put together a travel team to run the 2023 London Marathon, then a group of industry professionals for a 100km ultra-marathon last year for Reuben’s Retreat.
“Five years ago, I had no idea what the future held for me and if I’d see my next birthday, but here I am about to turn 50 and taking on my most challenging race,” she said.
“I was lucky enough to recover and very soon after my treatment, I took up running again.
“Since then, I’ve done all sorts of races for charity, but the Marathon des Sables is like nothing I’ve ever done before.”
The Marathon des Sables is considered one of the most difficult races in the world (pic credit Heitor Pergher / Shutterstock)
She added: “When things get tough, I know that focusing on the fact that I am doing this to raise the crucial funding needed to complete the build of the final part of Reuben’s Retreat will drive me forward.
“I’m currently well and the love and support of my friends and family have got me here today.”
Rowe described Reuben’s Retreat’s team as “incredible” and said she “knows they will be with me every step of the way”.
Nicola Graham, founder of Reuben’s Retreat, said: “It was no surprise to me that when I looked up what the Marathon des Sables race was, it was originally founded by 23 pioneers – Reuben’s angel number.
“I took it as a sign that the stars were aligned, and that Lucia would be blessed on this inspiring and equally brutal challenge.
“Every vital penny raised will support families in their darkest days.”
To find out more about Rowe’s challenge and to donate, visit her JustGiving page.