Historic Watersnood Marathon returns to commemorate 1926 flood disaster
On May 3, runners and walkers can honor the 1926 flood victims by participating in the Watersnood Marathon. The 42-kilometer route follows the path of the floodwaters, offering a unique way to reflect on the region's history while staying active.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | Watersnood Marathon |
| Date | May 3, 2026 |
| Start Location | Sporthal De Passelegt, Overasselt |
| Route Length | 42 km (marathon) / 42.195 km (walk) |
| Start Time (Marathon) | 10:00 AM |
| Start Time (Walk) | 6:00 AM |
| Team Options | Individual, 2 or 4-person relay |
| Max Participants | 500 |
| Organizers | Nederasselt Gezond & Dijkensport |
| Registration | Tweestromenland |
The Watersnood Marathon is organized by local sports and community groups to commemorate the 1926 flood, which had a devastating impact on the Land van Maas en Waal. While not a government-led initiative, the event aligns with regional efforts to preserve historical awareness and promote community engagement.
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Join the Watersnood Marathon!
On Sunday, May 3, Overasselt will be the starting point of a truly special marathon. The Watersnood Marathon takes runners along a beautiful route: along the Maas river dikes from Overasselt, where the dike breach occurred in 1926, to Alphen/Dreumel, where gaps were made in the dike to allow water to flow through. The route is approximately 42 kilometers, the same distance the floodwaters traveled during the dike breach. The marathon starts at 10:00 AM at Sporthal De Passelegt in Overasselt, near the breach location. The marathon can be run individually or as a relay by teams of 2 or 4 people. There is also a walking version covering 42.195 kilometers, an ideal preparation for the Nijmeegse Vierdaagse, which starts at 6:00 AM. The Watersnood Marathon and the walking version together have a maximum of 500 participants. The event is organized by Nederasselt Gezond and Dijkensport. A sporting and unique way to collectively commemorate the history of the Land van Maas en Waal. More information and registration is available via the website of Tweestromenland.