More than 5,000 runners and walkers will take part in the sixth edition of the Great Breweries Marathon on Sunday 7 May. Start and finish are at Duvel Moortgat Brewery in Breendonk. In addition to the marathon and 25K, the programme of this unique experience event will also feature a 17K for the first time, giving participants in the longest distances the opportunity to also visit Bosteels Brewery in Buggenhout and Palm & De Hoorn & Rodenbach Brewery in Steenhuffel … and taste beers there.
The course of the Great Breweries Marathon meanders from Duvel Moortgat Brewery in Breendonk via rural roads across the territories of Antwerp, Flemish Brabant, and East Flanders. After 10km, walkers can take a break at Palm & De Hoorn & Rodenbach Brewery in Steenhuffel and, of course, also sample one of the delicious beers. The 25K participants will then turn towards Lippelo.
Those who opted for the marathon distance will first make a loop around Buggenhout, where Bosteels Brewery is located. Walkers can look forward to a beer tasting there too. Marathon participants will also reach Lippelo via Opdorp and then complete the circle to Breendonk. After finishing at Duvel Moortgat, both walkers and runners can raise a glass to their magnificent sporting achievement. All participants also go home with a Great Breweries giftbox.
Almost 10% of participants opted for the 17K, but with 30%, the 25K remains the most popular walking distance, followed by the marathon (12%). Of all participants, 8% walked the marathon and 40% the 25K. The ratio of runners to walkers is about fifty-fifty.
Accessibility
The Great Breweries Marathon organisation encourages all participants to come to the start in Breendonk by bicycle or public transport on Sunday morning. Ample bicycle parking is provided near the entrance to Duvel Moortgat Brewery and the start area. Those coming by train can change to a free shuttle bus in Mechelen.
Those coming by car should note that the Veurtstraat car park in Breendonk, which was used for previous editions, will not be accessible due to roadworks and the fair in the centre of Breendonk. Motorists should follow the signposts to the car parks and carefully follow the instructions of the signallers. They will guide everyone to the available parking spaces. From the Pfizer car park in Puurs, a free shuttle bus will take participants to the start in Breendonk.
