After Kona, it is the second-oldest Long Distance Triathlon in the world, and this year Challenge Almere-Amsterdam will celebrate its 45th edition. As tradition dictates, the race will again take place in the second weekend of September. To mark the anniversary, the organization is adding a special extra event to the program: the Challenge Almere-Amsterdam Marathon.
This new marathon will take place during the triathlon weekend and will start in the early evening. Officially, the gun goes at 5:00 PM, with participants setting off right next to the Esplanade, the event area of Challenge Almere-Amsterdam. After a short lead-in section of 1.6 kilometers, runners join the iconic run loop, the same run course where thousands of triathletes will already be competing in the Middle and Long Distance Triathlon races.
With a time limit of 5 hours and 40 minutes, the marathon will inevitably finish under the cover of darkness, adding an extra dimension to the experience. A maximum of 1,000 entries are available, and registration for the Challenge Almere-Amsterdam Marathon is now officially open.
“As a marathon participant, you’ll fully experience all the festivities along the course, including multiple passages through our stadium at the Esplanade,” says Event Director Jefry Visser. “From a marathon perspective, that’s truly unique. You’ll be carried forward by tens of thousands of spectators, music, and stadium announcers.”
In addition to the atmosphere and crowd support, marathon runners will also benefit from the extensive aid stations already in place for the Challenge Almere-Amsterdam Triathlon. “On the roughly ten-kilometer loop – excluding the lead-in section – you’ll encounter no fewer than six aid stations,” Visser explains. “Each station offers water, Powerbar products, sports drink, cola, crackers, and fruit. After the finish, athletes can make use of our dedicated after race area in the Schouwburg, with an athlete buffet featuring hot and cold meals, as well as shower and changing facilities.”
More information can be found at: https://challenge-almere.com/marathon/