Mac Mackenney, a former trainee fighter pilot from Axminster, is gearing up to lead a group of 13 teams on a driving expedition across the Sahara Desert.

The challenge is part of a 17-day fundraising adventure, which began in Morocco this week, (Monday October 17).

The Sahara Rally, supported by Odyessey Battery, will see participants take on the original Dakar Rally route from the Algerian border to the Atlantic Ocean in a car of their choice, whether it’s the latest 4x4 or an old banger that has seen better days. Originally set up as an initiative to help ex-military personnel recovering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the Sahara Rally is the brainchild of Mac Mackenney. The expedition leader trained as an RAF fighter pilot until his career took a different path after suffering a panic attack during a solo flight. Mac has now re-discovered his passion for adventure and is on a mission to encourage others to take on the most challenging and remote environments on earth with expeditions such as the Sahara Rally. Since starting his own company, Max Adventure, he spends much of his time organising adventures for military veterans and has extended the Sahara Rally to include thrill-seekers from all walks of life looking to experience the original Dakar Rally route and raise money for charity along the way. Speaking on the Sahara Rally, he said: “The idea first came about a few years ago as a way of supporting military veterans living with PTSD and since then the expedition has really gained momentum. While many of those taking part are ex-military personnel, we’re also joined by drivers who are simply looking for a challenge, adventure and some fun. Although the Sahara Rally is a non-competitive driving expedition, it requires endurance, stamina and resilience.

Derek Tyrer, Marketing Manager for ODYSSEY® Battery, produced by leading manufacturer, EnerSys®, added: “Mac and his team are so passionate about encouraging people to rise to the challenge and we’re extremely proud to support the Sahara Rally, as well as the fundraising efforts of those taking part, as the expedition continues to grow.”