University of Guelph Student to Tackle Marathon des Sables — image accompanying Canadian Running's report. Image accompanying Canadian Running’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Isabella 'Izzie' Sarbadhikari, a University of Guelph student, is preparing for the Marathon des Sables in April. She will join her father, Pro Sarbadhikari, to raise funds for War Child Canada. This marks Pro's third attempt at the race, having finished it in 2025.
Izzie has volunteered with War Child Canada and is using the race to support the organization's work in conflict-affected communities. Despite not being athletic growing up, she has completed several marathons and is now training six days a week. Read more culture coverage.
The Marathon des Sables, held since 1986, requires runners to be self-sufficient, carrying their own gear. Izzie's parents are funding her registration and travel, while she covers her equipment costs. Donations go directly to War Child Canada. Related: Boston Marathon 2027: Increased Acceptance Despite Tighter Cut-off.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Canadian Running. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about University of Guelph Student to Tackle Marathon des Sables?
Isabella Sarbadhikari will run 250 km in the Sahara for War Child Canada. Isabella 'Izzie' Sarbadhikari, a University of Guelph student, is preparing for the Marathon des Sables in April. She will join her father, Pro Sarbadhikari, to raise funds for War Child Canada. This marks Pro's third attempt at the race, having finished it in 2025.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on September 30, 2026. The underlying Canadian Running report was dated September 30, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Canadian Running. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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