Campusrun aims for more than three hundred participants with revamped route

The organisers of the second edition of the Campusrun hope to attract more than three hundred participants to campus this year, almost twice as many as last year. To make the event more accessible, the route has been adjusted with wider sections, fewer sharp bends and fewer changes in elevation.

At present, around 260 people have registered. That is a significant increase compared with last year, when there were 170 participants. After the registration deadline on 28 May, the organisers expect to have received more than three hundred entries from runners who will line up at the start on Saturday 30 May.

Fewer hills

To enable that growth and make the event more accessible, the route has been redesigned this year. According to committee member Josine Henneken, clear improvements have been made. “We have developed a new route that is better organised”, says Henneken. “Some sections were fairly narrow last year, which meant people could not easily run side by side. We have improved that this year and, in addition, there are fewer hills and fewer sharp bends.”

The new route is intended to ensure that both beginner and experienced runners can take part comfortably. The emphasis is on accessibility. “There are few runs that are organised this well while also being so inexpensive. We organise this event entirely on a voluntary basis and try to keep it as accessible as possible for both beginner and experienced runners”, says Henneken.

The connection with campus life is also important. According to committee member Jari Slomp, the event has been deliberately designed so that everyone can take part. “Students and staff can run together with friends or family”, says Slomp.

‘Enjoy a run together’

Although the run takes place in the middle of the exam period, the organisers do not see that as a problem. Henneken believes the Campusrun is actually a good opportunity to take a break from studying and find some distraction.

Alongside its recreational character, there is also room for competition. Prizes will be awarded for both the 5-kilometre and 10-kilometre races, and all participants will receive a medal afterwards. This year’s starting signal will be given by ‘runfluencers’ Jony Oosterbos and Kenzie Bresser.

According to the committee, however, the Campusrun is mainly about enjoying time together. “I personally think the social aspect is the most important”, says Slomp. Henneken especially hopes participants will ‘enjoy a run together’ and stay on afterwards for a drink on campus.

According to the organisers, the run is only truly successful if everyone crosses the finish line with a smile. “If everyone comes in smiling and wants to come back next year, then it is a success”, says Slomp with a laugh.