The city of Groningen will host the fourth edition of the Groningen City Marathon this Sunday, marking the return of the 42-kilometer race after an 18-year absence.
The full marathon starts at 10:30 a. m.
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from the Zernike Campus, while the half-marathon begins an hour earlier from the same location.
The course passes through Noorderplantsoen, Stadspark, and Eelde before finishing back at Zernike Campus.
Johan Meijer, an official from event organizer Golazo, confirmed that months of preparation are complete.
Weather forecasts predict favorable running conditions, with morning temperatures around 18 degrees Celsius rising to a maximum of 22 degrees Celsius in the afternoon.
A moderate western wind of force 3 is expected, with possible gusts up to 35 km/h.
Meijer explained that the staggered start times aim to spread out the finishing times at the venue.
The event management assessed atmospheric conditions and found them within acceptable safety limits, but urged runners to monitor their exertion carefully.
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The race revives an event originally founded by Vincent Hillebrand, who organized the first three editions in 2006, 2007, and 2008.
Hillebrand died accidentally on May 24, 2008, while setting up another local race.
He previously managed a running group called the 3 Hour and 59 Minutes Club and brought professional international athletics to Groningen.
The inaugural 2006 race was won by Kenyan runner Samson Loywapet in 2 hours, 14 minutes, and 29 seconds.
Hillebrand's family and friends continue to support the marathon tradition.
His son, Tibor Hillebrand, expressed support for the revived competition, calling the marathon "the ultimate achievement" and hoping for a successful event on Sunday.
Former running club member Elzo Dijkhuis plans to attend as a spectator.
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He noted that local running enthusiasts have discussed the positive return of the marathon while keeping the memory of its founder alive.
