We are back to Europe this week to discover a new marathon held in the Netherlands. Marlon Roels will be our guide.
Hello, my name is Marlon Roels.
As the chairman of the Marathon Zealandic Flanders (in the south of Holland, near the Belgium/Dutch boarder), I am proud to present our event.
I am a 37 year young average runner who energised the marathon idea which was present for many years, but never was taken from the table.
Hello, on May 16th 2009, you’ll be organizing the marathon Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. Can you tell us where it is located?
On May 16th 2009, We will be organizing the marathon Zeeuws-Vlaanderen (Marathon Zealandic Flanders). The start is located at the historic city Hulst (situated between Ghent and Antwerp, just above the Belgium/Dutch Boarder) and the finish line is found at the market place of the harbour city Terneuzen.
Why was it created in the first place?
It will be the 1th edition of the race. The idea is created with the intention to give the locals a boost to start running.
What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
The route is varied by the different kinds of surface. Sand, grass and other not asphalt types will be relevant for 14 kilometers of the track. Surrounding varies from cultural cities and villages to woods and fields.
How many runners do you expect on Saturday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
We expect a variety of running types at that Saturday morning and afternoon. Fast runners (~2:25) but also the less fast runners up to 5h30. International registrations are already received form France, Great-Britain and Belgium. We expect 350 runners for the marathon.
Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
Other races organised that day are the Relay marathon (max. 4 persons) and 1/4 and 1/8 marathon. For the youngest runners we organise a kids run of 1 km.
At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
For the international competitors and the possible weather conditions; for the last 10 years the month of May has been a month in which temperature can vary between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius during daytime. The weather can be sunny, windy and/or rainy
Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
We have a very nice finish area in the hart of Terneuzen. Restaurants and Cafe’s are at that market place. For the children there will be several small activities arranged.
The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Terneuzen before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
If you decide to visit the marathon of Zealandic Flanders in the south of Holland, do visit Hulst the next day Sunday. There are nice shopping streets and several cafe’s and restaurants. You can also go for a walk in the beautiful historical small city centre.
Terneuzen is the ideal place for a drink and a nice plate of food after the marathon. Restaurant ‘De Graanbeurs’, ‘Het Arsenaal’ in Terneuzen, but also ‘A Tablé’ in the nearby situated Axel is the perfect place to finalise the day. For more information about the marathon area you can visit our site.
In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the marathon Zeeuws-Vlaanderen?
The marathon Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is different. It is alternately, easy to reach and surrounded by beautiful nature. The perfect combination for a nice weekend and running a marathon.
Thank you Marlon
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