Dutch skating legend Henk Angenent immortalised with tree in his hometown
The municipality of Kaag en Braassem and Blauwe Zone Foundation have honoured speed skating icon Henk Angenent by planting a tree in his name. This tribute celebrates his legendary 1997 Elfstedentocht victory and enduring connection to the sport, near where he grew up in Woubrugge.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Honouree | Henk Angenent, legendary Dutch speed skater |
| Achievement | Winner of the 1997 Elfstedentocht, Dutch marathon skating champion |
| Location | Woubrugge, near Angenent’s childhood home |
| Tree Species | Acer campestre ‘Lienco’ |
| Organisers | Municipality of Kaag en Braassem & Blauwe Zone Foundation |
| Event | Zomergasten (Blauwe Zone’s annual guest event) |
| Next Zomergasten Guest | Francis Zoet, co-founder of The Great Bubble Barrier (plastic waste solution) |
The municipality of Kaag en Braassem plays a role in promoting local heritage and sports culture by supporting initiatives like this tree-planting ceremony. The Blauwe Zone Foundation, which co-organised the event, focuses on fostering a healthy lifestyle through sports, nutrition, and environmental projects.
Openrijk has no cookies or ads
But could use some support
external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
Municipality of Kaag en Braassem and Blauwe Zone honour skater Henk Angenent with a tree in his name
Legendary skater Henk Angenent has been honoured in a special way by the municipality of Kaag en Braassem and the Blauwe Zone Foundation. Following his appearance at Blauwe Zone’s Zomergasten event, Alderman Gerben van Duin planted a tree with Angenent in Woubrugge, near the place where he grew up.
Icon of speed skating
Henk Angenent became an icon in Dutch speed skating. His greatest achievement was his legendary victory in the 1997 Elfstedentocht (Tour of the Eleven Towns). Under extremely challenging conditions, he made history by finishing first in one of the toughest editions ever. He also became Dutch marathon skating champion and enjoyed a successful career on both natural ice and in marathon skating.
With his perseverance and down-to-earth character, he won the hearts of many sports fans. After retiring from competition, he remained involved in the sport as a coach for a marathon skating team and as the organiser of his own event: the Henk Angenent Classic.
Sports trees
Previously, trees were also planted for, among others, Femke Heemskerk and Joop Zoetemelk, who were also guests at Blauwe Zone’s Zomergasten. The foundation is committed to a healthy lifestyle, where exercise, healthy nutrition and a clean living environment contribute to a happier and longer life.
Alderman Gerben van Duin: “We are proud to honour Henk Angenent. His performances on the ice have not only made sporting history but also connect generations of skating enthusiasts. This tree – an Acer campestre ‘Lienco’ – is a lasting reminder of one of the Netherlands’ greatest sporting heroes, close to where he grew up. Something we as a municipality are proud of.”
New edition of Zomergasten
On 29 March, a new edition of Zomergasten will take place at De Spreng. This time, Francis Zoet is the focus, co-founder of The Great Bubble Barrier: an innovative solution that prevents plastic waste from rivers, particularly, from reaching the sea.
It promises to be another inspiring afternoon. Tickets are still available via www.blauwezonekaagenbraassem.nl.