Leeds man Simon Edgar is taking on the challenge of a lifetime in memory of his father who died aged just 45. 

Marketing manager Simon, 33, will run the 2011 Marathon des Sables, known as the 'Toughest Footrace on Earth' to raise money for Cardiac Risk in the Young. 

Simon, who works for Leeds-based football analysis company Prozone Sports Ltd., is usually seen running on the canal paths around Rodley, but on April 1 he will be travelling to Morocco and running over 150 miles across the Sahara Desert. 

Simon said: "Running the equivalent of six consecutive marathons is going to hurt, especially when I have to carry all my kit, food and sleeping bag in temperatures that will often exceed 40oC." 

Simon aims to raise £5,000 as a tribute to his father, James, who passed away in 2001.

"My dad died when I was just 21 and it was a very difficult time for me," Simon said. 

"Now I request a check-up withy my GP every year that involves an electrocardiogram (ECG) which is a very simple way to diagnose most cardiac abnormalities. 

"My friends and family have been very generous and I hope other people will sponsor me if they can," said Simon. 

Support Simon by visiting www.justgiving.com/MdS2011CRY