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There’s nothing quite like The Nijmegen Marches – this isn’t just one of the greatest challenges a walker can enter, it’s one of the most extraordinary experiences too!
The Route
After months of training our Nijmegen story begins on a Monday, on a coach, dropping us in the centre of town. Though 45,000 people sign up to walk each year, rumour has it that close to a million people are in Nijmegen to celebrate the marches. The Wedren, our event site, is buzzing. Lots of stands offer the chance to swag some top freebies from promoters (thanks to Diane and Helen for the much coveted flashy pen and water bottle) and, after checking ourselves in, there’s the chance to take in the amazing atmosphere in the town.
Nothing can compare to the feeling at the start of each day’s walk. Despite the early hour, the streets are hectic with thousands of cheering supporters. You quickly realise just how crazy the Dutch are for this event – whole towns line the streets whilst bands play in the centres. We even got to see the town mayors in their regalia!
Thousands of people clap and cheer you on. They set up hose pipes and sprinklers for you when it’s hot, and their children hold up liquorice sweets and cucumber to snack on. The generosity of the Dutch people is unbelievable, and they are the biggest part of what makes this event so special.
We all picked up lots of stories from the people we met. You’ll find fellow travellers who have completed the marches many times, every year for most of their lives in some cases. You can talk to any one, and anyone will talk to you! And the military teams who take on their challenges with full packs are an inspiration – their marching songs are just the tonic for tired legs!
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The most wonderful experience which I’m so glad I did and cannot wait to go back next year. The atmosphere, the friendliness and support of other walkers. The help given by the Red Cross and the Army Camps. The sweeties, liquorice, crisps given out by children and adults alike, the good nature and lightness of everyone and let’s faceit, being the centre of attention to one and a half million people is quite a boost to one’s confidence!! I can see why it is addictive!!
" Roena Gooch
The Final Day
After four days of marching the miles have taken their toll on more than a few pairs of feet – one of our wonderful walkers makes the local paper’s ‘blister of the day’ page! But as we make our way down the Via Gladioli there are no regrets - it’s all been worth it for the pride and satisfaction of completing the Walk of the World!
Ian, August 2010