Overview
- Organisers announced changes on Monday for Tuesday’s opening day that shortened the longest route from 40 km to 30 km and moved all start times one hour earlier to reduce heat exposure.
- On the opening day 56 walkers did not finish the first stage, and staff reported conditions were manageable as the event continued.
- Participants registered for 40 km or 30 km were allowed to switch to the 20 km route on Tuesday without notifying organisers and their medal eligibility remains unchanged.
- Organisers kept some early-start permissions in place on day two but said a firm rule banning earlier-than-regular starts will take effect from Thursday to normalise the schedule.
- Local broadcaster RTV Noord is providing live blogs, vlogs, a radio studio on the Grote Markt and on-route support, reflecting strong community backing while organisers stress safety to help people finish all four days.