Already more than a thousand registrations for the Long Distance at Challenge Almere-Amsterdam, only a few spots left for the Middle Distance, a total of around four thousand athletes taking to the start line in Almere during the second weekend of September, and on top of that a brand-new fireworks show to wrap up the race: the organization of the Netherlands’ largest triathlon event is gearing up for a grander edition than ever – which also happens to be the 45th edition of the event – and the signs are looking great.
More participants than ever, from all over the world
“After COVID, like all sports events worldwide, we saw a significant drop in our participant numbers. Fortunately, in recent years we’ve seen that trend turn around again, with more and more athletes finding their way back to Almere,” says Event Director Jefry Visser. “And that now results in an edition where, for the first time in years, we have more than a thousand athletes competing in the Long Distance covering a 3.8-kilometer swim, 180-kilometer bike, and 42.2-kilometer run. A record we are proud of. At the same time, our Middle Distance is selling fast, and we only have a very limited number of entry slots left. In total, around four thousand athletes will soon be in action in Almere, and we are extremely proud of that as well. Those are athletes representing over sixty different nationalities; our participants literally and figuratively come from all over the world.”
Challenge Almere-Amsterdam takes place from September 10 to 13. On Thursday, September 10, events include the Junior Challenge for students and the RABO Business Relay for company teams. On Friday, September 11, there is a Senior and No-Limit Challenge for seniors and people with an intellectual disability, before things really kick off on Saturday, September 13 with the European Championship Long Distance and the ever-popular Middle Distance. The first start is at 7:10 AM for women and 7:25 AM for men. The last finishers will be welcomed festively on the Esplanade, in an as always packed stadium, around 10:45 PM.
New to race weekend: marathon and fireworks show for 45th edition
Challenge Almere-Amsterdam is celebrating its 45th edition this year, while the city of Almere is five years ahead and celebrating its 50th birthday. Partly for this reason, a ‘night marathon’ for Challenge Almere-Amsterdam is being organized on Saturday, September 12. That marathon was already announced. At least as spectacular will be the fireworks show – which was unannounced until today – that will be given right after the last finisher crosses the line. Via special fireworks pontoons placed in the Weerwater, right across from the Esplanade, a fireworks show lasting more than ten minutes will be presented. “A more festive conclusion for Challenge Almere-Amsterdam is unimaginable. With beautiful ornamental fireworks, synced to music, we will literally end the race weekend with a bang. We hope as many residents of Almere as possible will come watch.”
