What a Day – Eindhoven Ran, Sang, and Shined!

USPA NEWS - What an absolute party it was in Eindhoven. Sunshine, blue skies, not a breath of wind… if you could design the perfect weather for a marathon, this would be it. The second weekend of October once again brought out the best of our city: sport, music, good vibes, and that unmistakable Eindhoven energy.

I was out early, coffee in hand, sunglasses on, ready to soak it all in. Around nine o’clock the quarter marathon kicked off, and an hour later the real thing began – the full marathon. And wow, the atmosphere was electric. From the Montgomerylaan all the way to the Vestdijk, people were cheering, clapping, and singing. Kids with bubble blowers, granddads waving flags, mums handing out ice packs. The whole city seemed alive and buzzing.

The Vestdijk Finish – Pure Goosebumps

The finish line was right where it belongs: on the Vestdijk. The crowd was packed shoulder to shoulder. When Kenneth Kipkemoi from Kenya came flying down the final stretch, the whole street erupted. What a runner, what elegance! Right behind him came his compatriot Flomena Chepkiach, the fastest woman of the day. And of course, Dennis de Freytas once again claimed the title of fastest Dutch runner – just like last year.

But honestly? The best moment came much later. When most people were already enjoying a well-deserved beer, she appeared: Famke van de Koevering from Best. The very last finisher. She ran, she limped, she smiled – and got the loudest applause of all. Six hours and ten minutes on the move, but she made it. I’ll admit it: I had a lump in my throat.

One Little Miss There was one thing missing this year: Stratumseind. The full marathon didn’t pass through the city’s famous party street. Too crowded, too narrow, said the organizers. A shame, because that stretch always brings so much character and local color. Luckily, they’re thinking about bringing it back next year. And honestly, even without it, the city still threw one massive celebration. Eindhoven at Its Best Everywhere you looked there was music, laughter, and joy. The organization was spot-on, the volunteers were fantastic, and the weather couldn’t have been better. By the time I took my last sip of beer on the terrace at the Markt, I thought to myself: this is exactly why I love Eindhoven. A city that forgets everything for a day and celebrates life — on running shoes.

Results in Short:
Men: Kenneth Kipkemoi (Kenya)
Women: Flomena Chepkiach (Kenya)
Fastest Dutch runner: Dennis de Freytas
Hero of the day: Famke van de Koevering – 6:10 hours, applause guaranteed.