Simon described the race as "an incredible physical and mental challenge". He said the course and terrain were very difficult, the soft sand made it difficult for him to walk let alone run, and climbing and descending the high dunes was very tiring. "At times it really felt as though you were running on the moon or some distant planet," he noted.

Simon found the camaraderie amongst the competitors "amazing and very supportive". The longest day stage was 102 km, and that was particularly difficult. Fortunately the weather that day was quite cool, with a breeze and temperatures in the mid-30s. Early in the week, the daytime temperatures were as high as 48 degrees in the shade.

"It was a very special and rewarding moment when I finally crossed the finish line at the Pyramids. But most importantly I was able to publicise the great work done by Operation Breakthrough. A number of the other competitors asked me about the programme, including some police officers from Ireland, Australia and the UK, who were interested in trying to start a similar initiative with their own Forces," said Simon.

So far Simon has raised almost $40,000 for Operation Breakthrough, and still has some pledges to collect. He would like to say a big thank you to everyone in the Force who has sponsored his charity run, as well as a special thank to all the officers who sent e-mails and messages of support during the race.

During the Sahara Race, Simon never misses any chance to publicise the great work of Operation Breakthrough

Simon has taken the challenges of the desert in his stride

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