Maryline Nakache – Queen of the Marathon des Sables
An elite runner with an impressive track record, Maryline Nakache has just won the Marathon des Sables for the second time, with a 4ᵉ place overall and almost every stage won. She talks to us about this unusual race, her nomadic van lifestyle, her job as a coach... and her undiminished passion for trail running and ultra.
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Maryline Nakache recently won for the second time the Marathon des Sables, a legendary 250 km self-supported event across the Sahara. A landmark victory, with a 4ᵉ place overall and almost every stage won. But behind the podiums, there’s a passionate woman, who lives in her van, runs for pleasure, and accompanies others in their practice. Meet an ultra-trail runner with a singular career path.
The Marathon des Sables, her favourite race
Maryline says it straight: “It’s my favorite race. It’s a race I love. I go there with desire, I don’t go there with pressure.” She has taken part five times, seduced as much by the physical intensity as by the emotional power of the desert experience. It’s not just a competition: it’s a rendezvous with herself.
A deep bond with the desert
What she finds in the desert goes beyond sport. She speaks of inner transformation, of stripping down, of coming face to face with oneself. ” This desert has built me up,” she confides. Nothing filters through there, neither fatigue nor emotions. You go through it all, unfiltered – and that’s precisely what makes this race so rich.
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A life of freedom in a van
For the past two years, Maryline has made another strong choice: to live full-time in her van. This lifestyle has become an obvious choice, in line with her values and her need for space. She finds it simpler, more in tune with her body, and more balanced for her trail running.
Passing on, with kindness
A sports coach, she accompanies runners of all levels, with an individualized approach. What she loves: helping others to progress, whatever their motivation. She insists on the importance of listening to each individual’s needs and finding the right leverage, whether it’s for performance, well-being or getting back into shape.
Staying aligned
Even if she’s competing at the highest level, Maryline refuses to run to tick boxes. Envy remains her driving force. “I run on desire. I need it to vibrate. When it stops vibrating, I stop. After a difficult 2023 season, she felt the need to slow down. Today, she wants to move forward at her own pace, keeping pleasure at the center.
And for those who are reluctant to take the plunge, she offers a simple piece of advice: “Don’t be afraid. Go for it. There’s nothing to lose by trying.
Follow Maryline
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marylinenakache/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marylinenak/
- Coaching: https://www.expertsportcoaching.com/les-coachs-esc
Cover photo credit: Ian Corless and MDS