The first day of the 42nd ASML Marathon Eindhoven is complete! On Saturday, Eindhoven was all about walking, running, personal challenges and, above all, enjoying sport. From the participants of the Marathon Eindhoven Urban Walk and ASML Your Marathon Challenge to the youngest runners taking part in the Kids Runs and the participants of the BrabantSport City Run: the city was already buzzing with activity today.
Despite the changeable weather, participants and supporters didn’t let it stop them. There was plenty of cheering along the courses, while achievements were celebrated at the finish. We look back on a fantastic first day of the marathon weekend!
Marathon Eindhoven Urban Walk
Saturday got off to an early start at Zilvermeeuwlaan, where participants of the Marathon Eindhoven Urban Walk set off. During the 10 and 15-kilometre routes, walkers discovered Eindhoven in a unique way.
Along the way, participants passed various well-known, surprising and cultural locations throughout the city. They walked through the main hall of the Effenaar, where the ceiling elements created an impressive moving display, and experienced the creative, urban surroundings of Strijp-S. At Area 51, BMX riders provided plenty of entertainment, while participants on the long route were treated to a traditional Brabant sausage roll at the Genneper Watermolen.
There was plenty to experience along the way before the walkers eventually reached their well-deserved finish and received their walking pin.
ASML Your Marathon Challenge
Another special moment on Saturday was the finale of the ASML Your Marathon Challenge. In the lead-up to the event, participants worked towards completing their own marathon, step by step and kilometre by kilometre. Today, it was time for the final part.
At 1:00 PM, participants started their final kilometre towards the finish. Walkers and participants using wheelchairs and walking frames completed the final metres of their personal challenge together.
At the finish, participants were welcomed by spectators, family and friends. After weeks of staying active and covering kilometres, that well-deserved medal was finally waiting for them. A special achievement for every participant. You are #ourpride!
Kids Run 1.5 and 2.5 km
Next up were the young runners taking part in the Kids Runs. During the 1.5 and 2.5-kilometre events, the participants showed that you’re never too young to enjoy the fun of running.
From the start, the young runners set off full of enthusiasm. Along the course, parents, family members, friends and other supporters were ready to cheer them on.
With the finish in sight, they gave it everything they had for those final metres. The reward? A fantastic finish and, of course, a well-deserved medal.
BrabantSport City Run
Saturday’s running events concluded with the BrabantSport City Run. More than 5,000 participants were ready to take on their 5 kilometres through Eindhoven.
Following the starting signal from Roy Meyer and the mascot, the participants headed into the city. Supporters cheered them on along the way. For some, it was all about setting a fast time, while for others, enjoying the kilometres and the atmosphere in the city was what mattered most.
After 5 kilometres, the finish came into sight and participants could celebrate their achievement. From young to old and from dedicated runners to recreational participants: this wonderful mix showed that the BrabantSport City Run really is for everyone.
On to Sunday!
We look back on a successful first day of the 42nd ASML Marathon Eindhoven. From the first walkers in the morning to the final runners later in the day, Eindhoven was filled with sport throughout Saturday.
Congratulations to all of today’s participants on your achievement! Take some time to enjoy the moment. Tomorrow, the second day of the marathon weekend awaits, featuring the Quarter Marathon, ASML Half Marathon and, of course, the ASML Marathon. Best of luck to everyone taking to the start line on Sunday!
