Cycling in Morocco, running in Barcelona

Full of exotic charm and with an energy all of its own, Marrakech provided the perfect gateway for Torbay Triathlete Nick Cull to set off on a wild adventure that would see him traverse through over 1300km and 20,000 metres of climbing across some of the most gruelling terrain in Morocco.

Weaving its way through high passes, scorched plains, and remote oases, the Atlas Mountain Race is an unforgiving, fixed route, unsupported, single-stage cycling race that starts in Marrakesh, crosses the Moroccan Atlas before taking riders through the Anti-Atlas and on to Essaouira. A race by name but the challenge to even finish is a victory that's hard earned.

With only 250 entrants, and less than 150 finishers, many ride alone and find solace in the other-worldly scenery. The clock doesn't stop, so any rest or sleep eats into the cut-off times and all nutrition must be meticulously planned and generally carried yourself.

Tarmac is also something of a luxury, as the route follows gravel, single and double track and old colonial peaks that have long been forgotten and fallen into disrepair.

This is extreme endurance cycling and a psychological test as much as physical. Cold nights sleeping on dirty tracks and sun-baked days at high altitude are amongst the many obstacles but, through it all, Nick embraced the hospitality and stunning views that brought light on even the darkest days.

The first sight of the sea on exiting the mountains marked a significant check point and a welcome respite from the gruelling mountain terrains. Tired, exhausted and with just enough energy for a sprint finish (it is a race after all!) in the early hours of Saturday morning, Nick triumphantly crossed the finish in 7 days, 8 hours, 54 minutes. An adventure and journey to be extremely proud of, Nick truly did rock the kasbah in Morocco.

Torbay AAC members Karen and Paul Frissen joined Andy Philippou to take part in the Barcelona Half Marathon on Sunday.

The glorious weather was shining on this great race, with it warming up towards the end. The flat course made for a nice outing with almost 30,000 runners taking part.

Results: Paul Frissen 1:51:42; Karen Frissen 2:00:33; Andy Philippou 2:29:55.